Residents in North West Leicestershire can now apply for the Government's new Test and Trace Isolation Support Scheme which was announced at the end of September.

The scheme, administered by North West Leicestershire District Council aims to support people on low incomes who are unable to work from home and whose finances are reduced by isolation due to Covid-19.

From Monday, September 28, people in England were required by law to self-isolate if they tested positive for the virus or if they were contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service advising them to self-isolate.

Those who are eligible for the scheme can claim for a one-off payment of £500 to support them during each period of isolation.

Applications will need to be submitted within 14 days from the end date of the isolation period.

A small discretionary fund is also available to support those in need but that do not fit the criteria.

Details on the full eligibility for both schemes can be found at Test and Trace Support Payment

Councillor Robert Ashman, Deputy Leader for North West Leicestershire District Council, said: "We understand that isolating due to coronavirus will impact people working in certain industries and it's important to offer support to those whose income will take a financial hit.

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"The Test and Trace Isolation Support Scheme has been designed to provide security and relieve stress for those that have been advised to isolate. It's critical that those with Covid-19 isolate to protect our communities, and financial pressure shouldn't be a barrier to someone that needs to stay at home for 14 days.

"We would encourage residents in North West Leicestershire to make use of the scheme and share the details with friends and family members that meet the criteria and need the financial support."