ALL NHS workers and school staff now have access to testing in south Essex.

As part of a boost in tests from the mid and south Essex Hospital Trust, every single NHS, blue light, social care, and school staff, will be able to get a Covid-19 test.

Crucially, the tests will be available near to where are they from.

The testing system, notably in Southend, has come under increased strain in recent weeks, with dozens of symptomatic residents left queuing for hours outside the testing centre on Short Street.

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Tom Abell, deputy CEO at the mid and south Essex Hospital Trust, confirmed the news afternoon, saying: "Good news! We're extending our Covid-19 testing service to school staff across mid and south Essex to help keep our classrooms open.

"All NHS, blue light, social care and school staff now have access to local testing."