Do you have to book the 5-day release test (arriving in UK) in advance only?

[CatAndHisKit]

It says so on the Govt website, but still makes you fill in the section for the 5 day release where you need to put provider's name, even if oyou said that you haven;t booked.
Does this mean you still may be allowed to book after you arrive? It's my mum arriving and I don't want to book yet as it's expensive already but if a company gives a discount, I may do it (I'm paying) - she goes out for a daily walk as otherwise doesn't feel great (not in great health but needs to stay here as her county is too hot in summer, she has no garden) and 10 days will be a struggle, though I do have a garden (not big).

You book when you fill in the passenger locator form- within 48 hours of arrival. You can book before but if you haven't booked by then in takes you to another site. Shops around- on BA there is a code for Money off- doesn't have to be a BA flight

I know that's the rule, MySecret, but I don't want to book just yet as it's expensive (on top of the mandatory ones) - I also thought you haev to book with same provider as the other two tests.
I@ve already done the form so too late anyway. So aer you saying you can book throughh another site later? Thanks for the BA tip.

Yes you can book once you’re home. I did it on day 1, they’re not allowed to dispatch until day 4 so as long as it’s before then. However I still haven’t had my results back and it was sent on Sunday and I’ve heard this from others who have done the day 5! Nightmare when you’ve paid to be ‘free’ early!

ah that's great (in theory) - but ridiculus that on day 7 still nothing - sure;ly they need to refund you!

So I'm trying to fill the new locator form as it's needed according to the Govt site, to book day 5 test if you haven't done so in advance. BUT it wouldnt let me put the past arrival date, and no option to tick that you the person is already here.
How did you get around that, Pink?

bump