CHANGES to the Covid certification scheme in Scotland will allow further flexibility for entrance to various venues, with a negative test for the virus now being accepted as an alternative to proof of vaccination.
Previously, those attending any event of 10,000 or more people, unseated outdoor events of 4000 or more and indoor seated events with audiences of 500 people and above had to show proof of being fully vaccinated against Covid-19 – unless they were exempt. The certification scheme also applies to clubs, defined as late night premises with music and a dancefloor, which serve alcohol at any point between midnight and 5am.
However, under the changes that come into effect today, people will be able to show a record of a negative Covid-19 result – either from a lateral flow device (LFD) or a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test – taken within the last 24 hours to gain entry as an alternative to showing proof of vaccination.
They can show either an email or text message which confirms that they registered a negative result with the results portal either online or by phone.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced the change at a previous coronavirus briefing.
John Swinney, the Deputy First Minister, said today: “Covid certification is playing a positive role in reducing the risk of transmission of Covid-19.
“It is also allowing higher risk settings to continue to operate more safely.
“This change makes it possible for people to show proof of a negative test as an alternative to proof of vaccination.” Swinney reiterated calls for people to step up compliance with coronavirus precautions, including using LFD tests regularly, getting vaccinated, wearing face coverings and working from home if possible.
He added: “I have been heartened to see that there has been a significant increase in demand for tests recently, and would encourage all households to have and use a regular supply of the tests.”
Tests are available free of charge to order from the UK Government website or for collection at a pharmacy or test site.
There are also plans to expand sites for the pick-up of free LFD tests to places such as shopping centres, supermarkets and sports grounds.
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