Test and Trace isolation payment for residents launched

From Monday 28 September, people in England were required by law to self-isolate if they test positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace service and advised to self isolate.

To support people on low incomes who are unable to work from home, and whose finances are reduced by isolation, the Government has set up a Test and Trace Isolation support scheme.

From Monday 28 September to Sunday 31 January 2021 people may be able to claim a one-off payment of £500 to support them during each period of isolation – subject to satisfying the eligibility criteria of the scheme.

The scheme for residents in Harborough district is set to go live from Monday 12 October 2020.

For all the details including eligibility criteria visit www.harborough.gov.uk/testandtrace 

If a person does not meet the eligibility criteria for the main scheme, they may be able to claim as part of the Council’s discretionary scheme instead.

Anybody wanting to make a claim has 14 days from the date their isolation ended to complete their application.

Cllr Phil King, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “It is crucial that people self-isolate if they show symptoms of coronavirus, or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace, and this scheme will help ease the worry while they’re doing the right thing and protecting others from the virus.”

Residents are encouraged to share information about this scheme with family and friends so people are aware that there is financial support in place to help pay essential bills.