The Government has announced three important changes to strengthen the system of self-isolation
- To make self-isolation mandatory, with fines of up to £10,000 for non-compliance;
- A £500 lump-sum payment for low earners;
- Stronger enforcement for companies that fail to support self-isolation of staff.
Ensuring that people who have been infected and their close contacts isolate is one of our most powerful tools for controlling transmission of COVID-19. Ensuring that people self-isolate when they need to do so will reduce transmission of coronavirus in the UK and help prevent family, friends and the community from contracting the virus, as well as helping to protect the NHS, the economy and vital public services.
From 28 September, the Government proposes to create a new legal duty under the Public Health Act 1984 that will require self-isolation by all those who test positive for COVID-19 or are identified by NHS Test and Trace as a close contact of a positive case. This means they cannot leave their home because this would risk spreading the virus. Failure to comply will be an offence carrying a fine of at least £1,000 and up to £10,000 for repeated breaches. Increasing the fines in this way will increase their deterrent effect and ensure that people who put others at risk through their reckless behaviour face a substantial penalty.
As is currently the case in guidance, the legal obligation to self-isolate will include specific exemptions, including for those who require care or medical attention during their isolation, or need to escape from harm. To reinforce the importance of self-isolation and help ensure people have access to the support they need, NHS Test and Trace will work with local authorities to ensure more regular contact with individuals who have to self-isolate. We are asking local authorities to focus on the principle of encouraging, educating and supporting self-compliance. The police will have the power to investigate and fine those who do not follow the rules.
To accompany this new requirement, the government is providing funding for a new Test and Trace Support Payment scheme.
This will be a £500 lump sum, payable to those on low incomes, who are unable to work because they have either tested positive or been identified by NHS Test and Trace as the close contact of a positive case. To be eligible, individuals will need to be employed or self-employed; unable to work from home and will lose income as a result, and; currently in receipt of Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit. In addition, local authorities will have access to a discretionary fund that they can use to provide assistance to those who fall between the gaps on an individual basis. More details on this fund will be provided in the coming week.
The Government is asking local authorities in England to put in place arrangements to process applications and make these payments. Eligible individuals who are notified on or after 28 September will be able to make backdated claims where necessary.
