Eligible residents are now able to apply for a one-off £500 payment as part of the Test and Trace Support Scheme.

The scheme is open to residents who have been contacted by the Test and Trace service and asked to self-isolate because they have either tested positive for COVID 19 or recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. The scheme will provide vital financial support to those with low incomes who are unable to work from home while they are self-isolating.

The introduction of the Test and Trace Support scheme was announced alongside the law requiring those instructed to self-isolate by the NHS Test and Trace service to do so to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Speaking of the scheme, Maria Miller said: "This scheme will be a great financial help to those from needing to self-isolate in line with the law. In turn, the scheme will also help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep Basingstoke safe."

Those who needed to self-isolate from 28 September onwards will be eligible to receive a backdated payment, subject to completing an application form for the scheme.

For more information on the scheme or to apply for a payment, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/covid-19-test-and-trace-support-scheme

For more information on the government announcement, including the introduction of fines from £1,000 for those breaching self-isolation rules, visit www.gov.uk/government/news/new-package-to-support-and-enforce-self-isolation