The Government has launched a new payment for those on low incomes who unable to work while self-isolating.

West Oxfordshire District Council will be processing applications and making payments to those who:

• Have been told to stay at home and self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, either because they have tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive
• Are employed or self-employed
• Are unable to work from home and will lose income as a result
• Are 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.

Those who meet the criteria, and have been provided with an eight-character account reference from the NHS Test and Trace Service, will be eligible for a one-off payment of £500.

Cllr Toby Morris, Cabinet Member for Resources at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Residents have to isolate if they have tested positive for Covid-19 or have received a notification from the NHS Track and Trace app.

“Obviously, this can place low-income households under added financial pressure, but it is hoped this support payment will help those struggling financially to self-isolate swiftly and keep the virus from spreading further.”

For more information and to apply for a test and trace support payment, see:
https://www.westoxon.gov.uk/council-tax-and-benefits/coronavirus-council-tax-and-benefits/