People on low incomes who are told by NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate – either due to a positive Covid-19 test or being in contact with someone who has tested positive – may be entitled to financial support during self-isolation.
Since Monday 28 September, people across England have been required by law to self-isolate if they test positive or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace. Breaking this law could lead to a fine of between £1,000 and £10,000.
When self-isolating, people must not leave the house for any reason. They must not go to work, school or any other public spaces. Any exercise should be taken within the home, and friends or family should be asked to buy food or other essentials.
Residents who receive benefits that have been told to self-isolate but are unable to work from home, losing income, are eligible for a Test and Trace Support Payment of £500. These payments are being managed on behalf of the Government by Dorset Council.
Cllr Gary Suttle, Portfolio Holder for Finance, Commercial and Capital Strategy, said:
“We are very fortunate in Dorset that, while infection numbers have risen, they are still relatively low compared to lots of other places. It is critical that if any of us are told to self-isolate, we must do so to break the chain of transmission and protect our friends and family.
“We very much welcome this latest package of Government financial support for people who are being asked to self-isolate.”
Who is eligible?
You must be currently receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit and have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace.
How to Claim
Visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/test-and-trace-support-payment
The claim e-form will ask people to provide:
- The unique ID number from their NHS Test and Trace notification
- Details of employment
- A recent bank statement
- National Insurance number
For residents who may need help completing the form, they can call 01305 221000 and a member of Dorset Council’s Customer Services team will be able to fill the form in for them over the phone.
If you meet all the criteria but you are not currently receiving one of the benefits listed, you may still be eligible under a Discretionary Scheme. See www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/test-and-trace-support-payment for more information.
