This morning I got a COVID test.

Here is a guide of what's it's like from an autistic perspective (thread)

I had a drive-through test by myself. I stayed in the car the whole time.

I wore my sunflower lanyard

(Hopefully, the COVID testing staff recognised this a knew what it is)

You need to keep your window up the whole time (unless they ask you to take it down)

Should have started with this! You need to book your test online before you show up at the test centre! https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test

When you arrive, they will:

-Scan your card number plate

-Ask for the QR code they sent to you via e-mail

-Ask for ID (Passport or driving licence)

-Tell you where you need to drive next

A lot of non-verbal communication was used.

Being autistic and a bit anxious the time made it challenging for me.

@NHSAbility Is this something you could look into?

It might be a good idea to take another person with you, to help with any communication barriers if possible.

There might be some waiting before the test.

When you get your test, you will be asked to put your window down.

A person in PPE will then come to your car.

They will give you full instructions about how the test will be taken, including how long it will take!

This part felt very autism-friendly for me!

They will also tell you how to say if it becomes too uncomfortable. You may also want to use @CarlyJonesMBE app if it's easier for you!

You will stay in your car and the person in PPE will do the test.

Part 1

They will put a cotton swab inside your mouth and ask you to say ’ahhhh’ They will do both sides of your mouth and the back of your throat.

This will last for a few seconds. I found this slightly uncomfortable and I told her when it became too much.

Luckily she was just about to take the swab outside my mouth, so this wasn't too much an issue anyway.

Part 2

The swab (the same one used in your mouth) is then put up your nose for 10 seconds.

I did find this uncomfortable but I closed my eyes which helped.

Then the test is done!

I was told that I should get the result in 48 hours!

I drove home and I'm now waiting for the results.

I was hoping to take pictures but they said we had to turn off recording devices

(I hate breaking rules!)