We all agree that testing helps to stop the spread and keep the country safe. Children are returning to schools and face a COVID swab test with every cough or temperature usually experienced at this time of year. A swab test is an uncomfortable and highly distressing experience for a child and alternatives should be offered wherever possible.

Saliva tests have now been developed and should be prioritised for the most vulnerable groups, including school children and preschoolers who face a regular traumatic experience in the form of a swab test. We call on the government to spare thousands of children the experience of a swab test. If it's not currently feasible to roll out a saliva test we ask that the government prioritise this and take into consideration the deeply unpleasant nature of having a swab test as a young child. Children have enough to deal with in going to preschool and school during this pandemic - let's spare them additional trauma if we can.