People on low incomes eligible for £500 support grant if asked to self-isolate

Falkirk district residents on low incomes who are asked to self-isolate amid the coronavirus crisis will be eligible for a new £500 support grant.

The Scottish Government has announced anyone facing financial hardship due to being asked to self-isolate will be entitled to the money.

The support plan is targeted at those who are in receipt of Universal Credit or legacy benefits, with some discretion to make awards to others with economic difficulties.

Applications are due to open from October 12 and will be delivered through the existing Scottish Welfare Fund, administered by local authorities.

Angus MacDonald, Falkirk East SNP MSP, said: “The prospect of self-isolation is tough to face for anyone, and if the need arises, it is necessary to do so to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“However, it is vital to protect those on low incomes, and support them wherever possible, so that they do not face financial hardship for simply doing what is right.

“Whatever the Scottish Government can do to ensure that support is in place for those most vulnerable in our communities, we will ensure that it happens.

“Unfortunately, we cannot go further as we don’t currently have the full fiscal powers in place to ensure tailored support is available. We must continue to work in the best interests of our communities, however, and ensure that we have those powers sent to us so that we can take the decisions that will be best for Scotland.”

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