Test and Trace Support Payment reminder

Saturday, 29 January 2022 12:31

By David Murphy

With cases of covid-19 still high in the borough, many people are finding they are losing income due to needing to isolate. So Rochdale Borough is reminding self-isolating residents with covid that they can still apply for a £500 pandemic payout.

If you have symptoms of coronavirus, you need to self-isolate until a test has proved that you do not have the virus – and if you test positive, you must continue self-isolating for up to 10 days.

Until 31 March 2022 you can claim the £500 payment available to residents on low incomes who are required to self-isolate. The Test and Trace Support Payment is for people who are unable to work from home, would lose pay and are told to self-isolate by the NHS. The council also has a discretionary fund to help those most at risk of suffering financial hardship as a result of self-isolating.

Council leader Neil Emmott said: “This Test and Trace Support Scheme has already been a lifeline for many residents and it is still available until 31 March, so do look after yourself and see if you qualify. Infection rates are still high and even with Plan B restrictions lifted the pandemic is not over so I also encourage anyone who has not yet had their booster vaccination, or their first or second doses to do so as soon as possible."

To check eligibility and apply for the council’s discretionary payment, the existing Test and Trace Support Payment or other support visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/TestAndTracePayment

If you are unable to apply online or need help applying, phone 0300 303 8870.

If you have already and received an email confirmation it will be processed as soon as possible and you will be contacted again by email. It is important that you do not make further applications while you are waiting.

There is also lots of advice and help for anyone struggling with debt, money or work worries at rochdale.gov.uk/moneyadvice

The council’s early help team is still supporting families with food clubs (discounted and free schemes for qualifying families) child development and health advice, mental health support, advice on healthy relationships, support with financial issues, support for children with disabilities, behavioural issues and more. Details at www.rochdale.gov.uk/coronavirus