Self-isolation Financial Barriers 2021-03-08
2021-03-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Scientists have noted that financial reasons prevent many people from complying with the requirement to self-isolate, affecting public health policy.
What assessment has been made of the implications for policies due to financial barriers preventing compliance with self-isolation requirements; and will a statement be issued?
The Government have provided support including employment and support allowance, universal credit, statutory sick pay, and the test and trace support payments scheme. Local authorities have been given £35 million for discretionary payments, with an additional £20 million per month.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of financial barriers to self-isolation compliance
Providing General Support Options
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Scientists have noted that financial reasons prevent many people from complying with the requirement to self-isolate, affecting public health policy. The means-testing involved in the £500 support payment has been questioned.
What assessment has the Department made of the means-testing involved in the £500 payment? Does the Minister agree that everyone should be eligible for this payment and that statutory sick pay is too low?
Local authorities have received £35 million for discretionary payments, with an additional £20 million per month. Statutory sick pay is supplemented by universal credit or employment and support allowance depending on eligibility.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of means-testing in the £500 payment and agreement to change statutory sick pay rate
Providing General Support Options
Response accuracy