Stuart McMillan MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde has welcomed a new grant to help people on low incomes if they are asked to self-isolate due to COVID-19.
The new Self-Isolation Support Grant will help those who would lose income if they needed to self-isolate, such as those unable to carry out their work from home.
This grant is for those who will face financial hardship due to being asked to self-isolate and will be targeted at people who are in receipt of Universal Credit or legacy benefits, with some discretion to make awards to others in financial hardship.
Applications are due to open from 12 October and will be delivered through the existing Scottish Welfare Fund, which is administered by local authorities.
Commenting, the local SNP MSP said:
“Self-isolation isn’t easy, but it’s a selfless act that is essential to protect people and reduce the spread of this deadly virus.
“To ensure people do not experience financial hardship as a result of doing the right thing, the Scottish Government are introducing this new £500 grant for people on low incomes who have been told to self-isolate.
“The SNP government want to do everything they can to support people throughout this challenging time and these payments will help ensure people do not have to make a choice between self-isolating and supporting themselves financially.
“For people in Inverclyde who are on low incomes and would be unable to work if they had to self-isolate, this support will be a huge help.
“We all want to do our bit to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and this grant will be a relief to those who will receive it, as they won’t need to worry about affording food or paying the bills as a result of self-isolating.”
Stuart McMillan MSP 