Who can claim £500 covid payments - Northumberland workers urged to access scheme
The nationwide test and trace support scheme for those on low incomes is a £500 payment which can help those who cannot work from home and who have lost income as a result of having to self-isolate.
It is being administered by local authorities and Northumberland County Council will make payments to those who are eligible.
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Hide AdNew legislation means people are required by law to self-isolate if they have a positive covid test result or they are contacted by NHS Test and Trace and instructed to self-isolate.
The Government has also made it clear that businesses shouldn’t discriminate against those who have to self-isolate and could be fined if they do so.
Cllr Nick Oliver, cabinet member for corporate services at the council, said: “We know that self-isolation is one of the most powerful tools for controlling the transmission of Covid-19 and in Northumberland, like almost all areas, our levels are rising.
“We hope this new test and trace support payment of £500 will ensure that those on low incomes are able to self-isolate without worrying about their finances.
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Hide Ad“We know many people are following the rules around self-isolation, but these steps will make sure more do so without worrying about money, and help ensure the public do not unknowingly spread the virus.
“We have worked as quickly as we can to set up processes to pay out the support, and the application system is now live.
“Those who have had to self-isolate from September 28 will receive backdated payments if they are eligible.”
You can apply for a support payment at www.northumberland.gov.uk/coronavirus