Thousands of workers able to access testing thanks to grant scheme
A grant scheme has enable thousands of workers across a city to access twice-weekly Covid-19 tests.
The Wolverhampton Business Testing Grant scheme was launched by Wolverhampton Council in March and allowed businesses to claim financial support of up to £10,000 to provide regular testing for staff.
The grant was intended to offset any additional costs testing might entail, such as PPE and cleaning for on-site testing, or time away from work to allow staff to get themselves a rapid test.
More than 270 local businesses employing more than 3,000 staff signed up before the closing date last month.
In order to receive their grant in full, these businesses must ensure that at least 75 per cent of their workforce have a free rapid Covid-19 test twice a week.
Councillor Stephen Simkins, cabinet member for City Economy, said: "The Business Testing Grant is just one of the ways in which we are supporting local businesses to operate as safely as possible as the city looks to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
"It's great news that over 270 employers signed up to the Business Testing Grant scheme and that their workforce is now having a routine test."
Information about business grants can be found at wolverhampton.gov.uk/businessgrants.
