Pendle News Room

Residents who are employed or self-employed can now apply for a self-isolation payment under a new Government scheme.

Only those who have been given a positive COVID-19 test, or who have been identified as a contact of someone who has had a positive test and have to self-isolate, should apply.

Eligible residents who receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit or Working Tax Credits, would receive a payment of up to £130 for the 10-day self-isolation period.

Other members of their household, who have to self-isolate for 14 days, are entitled to a payment of £182.

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council, said: “I welcome this new payment scheme because it’s vital that there is financial help for residents who need to self-isolate and are on low incomes.

“Whilst I wish the payments were higher, this is a start.

“We aim to make payments within 48 working hours once we’ve received the evidence we need to prove that applicants are eligible.”

Visit Pendle Council’s website for more information and to apply for a self-isolation payment - www.pendle.gov.uk/selfisolationscheme

Councillor Iqbal stressed that Pendle continues to have one of the highest infection rates in the country

He said: “If we’re going to stop the spread of COVID-19, anyone who tests positive, or has been told they’re a contact of a person who has tested positive, must immediately self-isolate at home.”

Anyone self-isolating must not:

• go to work, school or public places – work from home if you can
• use public transport or taxis
• go out to get food and medicine – order it online or by phone or ask someone to bring it to your home
• have visitors in your home, including friends and family
• go out to exercise – exercise at home or in your garden, if you have one

Pendle residents are urged to get tested even if they don’t have any symptoms.

• Visit a mobile testing unit at the former fairground site, Carr Road, Nelson BB9 6DG or the car park next to the Station Hotel, Broadway, Nelson. Book a test by calling 119 or do it online - www.pendle,gov.uk/coronavirus
• Visit a community drop-in testing site on Market Street, Nelson, between 10am and 3pm. No appointment needed

Pendle Community Support Hub is available for people who are self-isolating and don't have friends or family nearby to help.

There's lots of advice on where to get help via the website – www.pendle.gov.uk/communitysupporthub or call (01282) 661743.