Mosque testing trial is success
A pilot programme for rapid Covid-19 testing in places of worship has completed its first trial run.
The Masjid Abu Bakr in Walsall was the first trial site for the programme, which aims to facilitate easier Covid-19 testing in places of worship and other areas where infection rates are higher using mobile units.
Two mobile units were set up in the car park of the mosque on Friday, allowing more than 100 people to access lateral flow tests throughout the day.
The programme is a partnership between Walsall Council, Public Health and the Union of Muslim Organisations (UMO).
UMO interim chairman Mohammed Arif said the aim was to have testing facilities for Covid-19 which were where people needed them and which were accessible to all.
He said: “We want to demonstrate to people that they can walk in, get themselves tested and have their test results in half an hour and sell the concept to ensure people get themselves tested.
"I think the trial is also a demonstration of how places like this can operate this sort of testing facility as this is the biggest mosque in Walsall.
“We have been working with the trust here and we know people will be coming in for their prayers throughout the day, so we think this can be a success with lots of people accessing tests.”
Stephen Gunther, director of public health at Walsall Council, said: “It is part of a range of action across the borough that supports and protects our communities, so we can continue to reduce Covid-19 infection rates in Walsall.”
Masjid Abu Bakr Imam Moulana Mohammad Luqman said the programme would help to create awareness of a very important issue.
He said: “We are able to use the facilities here to our benefit and advantage for this programme as we are a mosque and if people see this happening here, it will help them feel more comfortable.
"The main purpose is for people to come and use this for their benefit and help remove any hesitation that they may have from an Islamic point of view.”
