Preston and Lancashire to trial further self-isolation support

More ways of supporting people to self-isolate in Preston, Lancashire and other areas with higher coronavirus infection rates are to be piloted.

There will be ‘buddying’ services for those needing mental health support, and alternative accomodation offered to those in overcrowded homes.

There will be language communications support for those who do not speak English as their first language, and social care support, such as increasing existing social care support for vulnerable adults.

It is hoped that the extra support will encourage people to get tested and self-isolate if required.

The government have said this is vital in the fight against new Covid variants.

All the areas that will receive funding from a £12m pot for the pilots are:

Lancashire, Blackburn & Darwen, Blackpool
Greater Manchester
Cheshire and Merseyside
Newham and Hackney in London
Yorkshire and Humber
Royal Borough of Kingston
Peterborough, Fenland and South Holland
Somerset

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We recognise just how challenging self-isolation is for many people and these pilots will help us find the best ways to support people and making it easier for everyone to keep doing their bit.”

However, people in pilot areas will not receive further financial support when self-isolating.

Under current rules, people can apply for a £500 grant in England to people on low incomes who have to self-isolate.

Labour has been calling on the government to expand eligibility for this scheme.

This includes ‘support and engagement teams’ who work with households within 24 hours of a positive Covid test to develop a bespoke plan for self-isolation.

People who have tested positive for coronavirus and those considered at risk of having been exposed to it must self-isolate.

This means staying at home under any circumstances.

Do you think the government should be providing more support for those self-isolating? Let us know in the comments below.