COVID-19: Self-isolating in high risk areas

Today (27 August 2020), Government announced the introduction of a new payment scheme aimed at benefiting those on low incomes who need to self-isolate and are unable to work from home in areas with a high incidence of COVID-19.

• The scheme will start on 1 September 2020 and will trial with those in Darwen, Pendle, and Oldham.
• The scheme will only be available to people currently receiving either Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit and this will not reduce any other benefits that they receive
• Eligible individuals who test positive for Coronavirus will receive £130 for their 10-day period of self-isolation.
• Other members of the same household, who must self-isolate for 14 days, will be entitled to a payment of £182
• Non-household contacts advised to self-isolate through NHS Test and Trace will also be entitled to a payment of up to £182, tailored to the individual length of their isolation period.
• Payments will be provided within 48 hours of the eligible individual providing the necessary evidence. Individuals will be asked to provide a notification from NHS Test and Trace and a bank statement.
• Local authorities are authorised to check the NHS Test and Trace system to confirm the individuals have been asked to self-isolate, if the individual is unable to provide the requested information.
• It is the local authority’s duty prevent fraud and ensure compliance, and so, they will be authorised to carry out welfare check-ins, phone calls and employment checks.

See the announcement here.

Aspire Comment

Although any additional support is better late than never, one could question the lateness of such a support scheme. It is also questionable that those who test positive for the virus will be more disadvantaged than those who have been in contact with the individual. Nevertheless, this support scheme will come as a relief to those who are required to self-isolate and cannot work from home.

If you have any queries regarding the sick pay legislation, or any other COVID-19 queries, give us a call on 0121 445 6178 or email enquire@aspirepartnership.co.uk for a chat to discuss the support we can provide to you and your business.