Residents on low-incomes and unable to work because they have been asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, can now claim a £500 payment to compensate for loss of earnings.
As part of a Government scheme, residents in Ipswich who are on low incomes and are unable to work because they have been told by NHS Test and Trace that they have to self-isolate can now apply for a lump sum payment from Ipswich Borough Council. Money will be paid into their accounts within days of applications being verified, to relieve immediate financial hardship.
People who receive notification from NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate because they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, will be entitled to a £500 support payment if they meet all of the following requirements:
Discretionary payments may also be available in exceptional circumstances to individuals who meet the main qualifying criteria (i.e. low-income and unable to work because they are self-isolating) but are not in receipt of qualifying benefits and are facing severe financial hardship.
The scheme is being administered by the Shared Revenue Partnership – with a fast and simple application form now available on the council's website, together with information about how to easily provide evidence required and further details about the scheme.
Councillor Sophie Meudec, Ipswich Borough Council portfolio holder for communities said: “These are challenging times and the need to self-isolate can cause financial pressures for those on low incomes and the self-employed. We hope that the introduction of this scheme reassures residents in need that they will be supported while they do their bit to protect themselves and others.”
Claims must be made within 14 days of a period of self-isolation ending. Individuals eligible on or after Monday 28 September will be able to make a backdated claim. Payments will start from Monday 12 October.
Residents are also reminded of the launch of the Suffolk Support and Advice Service earlier this month to help people access information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment.
Citizens Advice Suffolk Alliance, which includes the eight Citizens Advice Bureaus across Suffolk, and Anglia Care Trust and Ipswich Housing Action Group are delivering advice and support to people through a single phone line.
The phoneline is funded by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders and has been developed by Suffolk-wide partners on the Collaborative Communities Covid-19 Board, which is part of the Suffolk Resilience Forum.
People can contact the Suffolk Support and Advice Service on 0800 068 3131 between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Further information can be found on the dedicated webpage.
