As of today (Monday 12 October) Warwick District Council will be providing payments to those unable to work from home who have been told to self-isolate through NHS Test and Trace.

Test and Trace payments of £500 will be available to people in Kenilworth who meet the eligibility criteria and have been told to self-isolate on or after 28 September 2020, either because they have tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.

To be eligible for payment applicants will need to demonstrate that they:

- Have been told to stay at home and self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, with a valid notification.

- Are employed or self-employed;

- Are unable to work from home and will lose income as a result; and

- 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.

Applications for financial support must be made to the council as soon as possible, but no later than 14 days after the period of self-isolation has ended. Others in the same household are able to apply, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.

A discretionary payment scheme is also being developed for those on a low income unable to work from home who do not receive one of the qualifying benefits.

Warwick District Council's Portfolio Holder for Business & Finance Councillor Richard Hales said "these payments are not only a vital financial lifeline to those who are self-isolating, but will help to stop the spread of the virus amongst our community, prevent local lock-downs and more importantly save lives."