Financial support to help you in self-isolation

Self-isolation payment scheme

On 20 September, the Government announced a national Test and Trace Support scheme which commenced on 28 September 2020 to support those who have asked to self isolate by NHS Track and Trace. Payments of £500 are available for eligible residents. 

Payments will be made within three working days of submitting a completed application form with the required supporting documents.

The eligibility criteria are listed below.

If you need help with the application form please contact us via:

• email: testandtracepayment@scambs.gov.uk
• telephone: 03450450500

Apply now

Who is eligible?

If you have been told by the NHS to self-isolate, either because you have tested positive for coronavirus COVID-19 or you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, you may be entitled to some financial support during your self-isolation period.

People who have received notification from NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate will be entitled to a Self-Isolation Payment providing they satisfy all 4 of the following requirements:

1. they comply with the notification from NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate
2. are employed or self-employed
3. are unable to work from home and will lose income as a result
4. are in receipt of one of the following benefits:
   • Universal Credit
   • Working Tax Credit
   • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
   • Housing Benefit
   • Income Support
   • Income based Job Seeker’s Allowance
   • Pension Credit

Discretionary Scheme

Local authorities can make a £500 discretionary payment to individuals who are not eligible for the above national criteria, providing they satisfy all of the following requirements:

• they comply with the notification from NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate
• are employed or self-employed
• are unable to work from home and will lose income as a result
• not eligible for the Self Isolation Support payment
• on low income and will suffer financial hardship
• that their bank account and savings should normally not exceed £1,500 there may be some discretion for exceptional cases

Test and Trace Support Payments Discretionary Policy [PDF, 0.2MB]

If you aren't eligible for these support schemes, please contact us so that we can let you know what other support is available.
Email: duty.communities@scambs.gov.uk
Telephone: 01954713070 (please leave a message and we'll call you back)