LONDON (UK) – Low-income Britons who are infected with novel coronavirus or are suspected to have symptoms of the infections will receive payment from the government to remain in self-isolation. This comes as the authorities are stepping up measures to contain the spread of the virus.
This comes as the opposition urged the government to pay low-income groups as some of them might not comply with the health directives as they cannot afford to stay away from work.
Those who test positive will receive 130 pounds for ten days of self-isolation. Other members of the family, who have to stay at home for 14 days, will get 182 pounds.
The funds will be made available to people via payment options such as Universal Credit or Working Tax Credits. On a pilot basis, the scheme will be implemented in Blackburn, Pendle and Oldham where local lockdowns were introduced because of the surge in infections.
“The British public have already sacrificed a great deal to help slow the spread of the virus. Self-isolating if you have tested positive for COVID-19, or have come into contact with someone who has, remains vital to keeping on top of local outbreaks,” said Matt Hancock, the health minister.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field.