Test and Trace Support Payment

Ensuring infected individuals and their close contacts isolate is one of our most powerful tools for controlling the spread of coronavirus. Self-isolation helps prevent family, friends and community from catching the virus, as well as helping to protect the health and care system.

Change in the Law

• From Monday, September 28 people will be required to self-isolate by law if they test positive for COVID-19 or are contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service
• If people fail to comply with these rules, they will face tougher penalties
• Fines for breaching the law will start at £1,000 and rise to £10,000

Test and Trace Support Payment

• The government has introduced a new grant to support people in work on low incomes to self-isolate
• Residents may be able to claim a £500 lump sum payment if they cannot work from home and are required to self-isolate
• This payment aims to help make up for any lost income people may face due to having to stay at home

Who is eligible for the Test and Trace Support Payment?

To be eligible for the support payment, people must meet all of the following:

• Have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace because of positive coronavirus test or recent close contact with someone who has tested positive
• Be employed or self-employed
• Be unable to work from home and will lose income as a result;
• Be receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income-based Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit or Pension Credit

East Lindsey residents will be able to apply soon, but if they are eligible before the scheme is open will be able to request that the payment the backdated to 28th September. There will also be a discretionary payment for people who do not meet all of the above criteria but guidance and application route for this is still to be confirmed.