Three staff members from homelessness charity Emmaus Salford have completed a coronavirus COVID-19 testing training course.
On Tuesday 19 May, Gail, Eileen and Rachel completed a course organised by Salford Primary Care Together at the A J Bell Stadium drive-through testing centre. The half-day course covered the basics of virus transmission and the process for safely administering the COVID-19 swab test.
The three trainees from Emmaus Salford shadowed the COVID-19 swab testers, seeing first-hand how to conduct the tests. The course will enable staff at Emmaus Salford to safely conduct a swab test if any of the people supported by the charity show symptoms of coronavirus.
Emmaus Salford supports 22 formerly homeless people by providing them with a stable home, meaningful work and support for as long as they need it. Emmaus operates three charity stores in the city as well as Lucie’s Pantry social supermarket, which offers food and household items to people on a limited income.
Eileen Crowe, Support Worker at Emmaus Salford, said: “It was very useful to see how the COVID-19 testing system works and learn more about virus transmission. We all feel more confident about administering the test in our Emmaus Salford community, should we need to in future. I would like to thank Salford Primary Care Together and NHS Northern Care Alliance for giving us the opportunity to complete the course.”
Salford Primary Care Together is responsible for driving collaboration and supporting GP practices in the neighbourhood. The organisation connects general practice with other professionals and support in local neighbourhoods, such as district nurses, social workers, mental health workers, voluntary organisations and local community groups.