Applications Open in Sandwell for Test and Trace Support Payments

Sandwell Council is now accepting applications for self-isolation support payments from people suffering financial hardship after testing positive for coronavirus.

The council is administering this government scheme, whereby some people who are required by law to self-isolate, from Monday 28 September 2020 may be supported by a payment of £500.

To be eligible for the Test & Trace Support Payment people must be:
• asked to self-isolate by NHS Test & Trace either because they have tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive
• employed or self-employed
• unable to work from home and will lose income as a result
• currently receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment & Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit

Local authorities await further detailed government guidance about the scheme, which will run until 31 January 2021.

A discretionary payment from the council may be available for people who are not receiving any of the above benefits but who are on a low income and experiencing financial hardship because they have to self-isolate.

These changes came into effect on 28 September 2020, alongside the legal duty to self-isolate and backdated claims are allowed from people eligible before that date.

Applications for the grant can be made online via ‘My Sandwell’, on the council’s website.