Hope That Rapid Covid Testing May Allow Nightlife To Open Again

News & Features

The UK Government has given hope that the nightlife industry may be able to open with the introduction of rapid, on-site Covid-19 testing.

A person is holding a test tube with a label that says covid-19
A white background with a few lines on it

The idea is that in combination with the vaccine and on-site testing, venues would be allowed to run events.

The UK government has given an indication of what nightlife may look like post-lockdown. Most theatres, nightclubs and bars have remained shut for almost 12 months. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has said that these businesses have been the 'toughest nuts to crack'.

A crowd of people raising their hands in the air at a little south concert
A white background with a few lines on it

...all those attending an event would need to swab either their nose or mouth...

There is hope for some venues that can accommodate on-site rapid testing. Lateral flow testing gives a result within 30 minutes and would be a way that venues could reopen safely. This would mean all those attending an event would need to swab either their nose or mouth and wait for a result before being allowed in. Lateral flow tests are currently offered to NHS staff, care homes, schools and universities.


The idea is that in combination with the vaccine and on-site testing, venues would be allowed to run events.

The little south logo is on a blue background.

Written by

Editorial Team • 18 February 2021

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