Government confirm payment for low-income workers who self-isolate

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock

Low-income workers who have to self-isolate in Oldham have been told they can claim up to £182 for their two week stay in isolation according to a Government announcement.

The scheme is being trailed in four areas of the north west, including Oldham, and means those who qualify will be able to claim £13 a day after they test positive for the virus.

Other members of the household who have to self-isolate for 14-days will be able to claim up to £182.

The Health Secretary Matt Hancock, said: “The British public have already sacrificed a great deal to help slow the spread of the virus. Self-isolating if you have tested positive for COVID-19, or have come into contact with someone who has, remains vital to keeping on top of local outbreaks.

“This new payment scheme will help people on low incomes and who are unable to work from home to continue playing their part in the national fight against this virus.”

None members of the household who come into contact with the infected person and have been contacted by the NHS’ Track and Trace system will also be able to claim the full amount.

Payments will be made 48-hours after the individual provides the necessary evidence.

In response to the announcement, the leader of Oldham Council, Sean Fielding said: “I am pleased that the Government have agreed to at least provide some financial help for those being asked to self-isolate in Oldham.

“Sadly this offer is nowhere near enough to provide real support, and it shows how out of touch with ordinary people this Government is.

“I stand with the Time Out To Help Out campaign in asking Government to support people across the country to self-isolate on full pay. People should not have to worry about loss of income whilst being asked to self-isolate. Oldham residents have pulled together to face this crisis, we now need Government do to their bit.

“We need a real and meaningful offer of support for Oldham residents who deserve better”

The scheme will be open to anyone who tests positive and claims Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit and cannot work from home.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.