More than half a million pounds has been given to people across Dudley borough who have self-isolated and unable to work, figures revealed today.

Dudley Council has given out 1,000 covid test and trace isolation payments. The scheme was launched in September last year and has been extended to meet the continued demand.

The one-off lump sums aim to support people who cannot work because they are self-isolating. People can still apply for the payments via the council’s website. It is one of a number of financial support packages the council has been administering as part of the fight against the impact of the coronavirus. Councillor Steve Clark, cabinet member for finance, said:

"The financial impacts of this terrible virus have been very clear throughout, both on businesses and individuals. We have worked tirelessly to do all we can to support people through this pandemic with whatever financial support we have.

"Half a million pounds worth of support is a tremendous effort but there is still more work to be done. I would urge anyone who has been unable to work because they are self-isolating to get in touch to see how we can help."

"o be eligible for the Test and Trace Support Payment, people must have been asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace on or after September 28 either because they’ve tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. They must also be employed or self-employed and be unable to work from home and will lose income as a result.

Finally, to be eligible people need to be employed or self-employed and currently receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit or Pension Credit. 

The payment scheme will be in place until the end of June this year. To apply for funding or for all of the latest on coronavirus visit dudley.gov.uk/covidisolationpayment.