Wigan MPs demand self isolating grant system is improved

Shock new figures reveal that three-quarters of applications for the discretionary handouts have been rejected for Wiganers.

The grant, targeted at workers not eligible for the main Test and Trace Support Payment because they do not receive benefits, helps people with coronavirus on low incomes to self-isolate if they cannot work from home.

But figures obtained by the Labour Party show more than 70 per cent of applications across England were rejected, as the Government denied claims that it was planning to extend the payment to everyone who tests positive for Covid-19.

A freedom of information request (FOI) showed 180 applications were made to Wigan Council.

Of these, 135 (75 per cent) were rejected and 45 (25 per cent) were granted.

This means the authority, which applies criteria stipulated by the Government, is rejecting applications at a higher rate than across England as a whole.

The figures included all applications made in Wigan from the scheme’s launch on September 28 up to December 13, when the FOI was submitted – but Labour said the figures may include some after that date.

Of the 49,900 applications made to the 200 local councils which responded to the FOI, 35,400 (71 per cent) were rejected, with just 12,000 (24 per cent) accepted – though success rates varied significantly.

Yvonne Fovargue, the Labour MP for Makerfield, said: “There is no doubt that the current support payment is not fit for purpose and forces people to choose between work and staying at home. It is vital that people are not punished for doing the right thing.

“The government established a fixed pot of money and, in some cases, councils have used up all the money because they have more people applying than was expected. So, we end up with a postcode lottery, if you live in one area you might get the funding, if you live in another area you might not.”

And Wigan Labour MP Lisa Nandy said: “It’s becoming increasingly clear that the current process for providing financial support simply isn’t working.

“I have been contacted by constituents whose claims have been turned down, despite having been told to self-isolate by NHS Test & Trace and their employers. Others have had claims rejected with no explanation as to why they do not qualify for support.

“For those on low incomes and zero hours contracts, self-isolating can be particularly difficult – these payments can be the difference between being able to pay rent or put food on the table.

“Until access to financial support is made easier and more straightforward, too many people will be forced to choose between ignoring public health guidance or risk spiralling into financial difficulties.”

Coun Terry Halliwell, cabinet member for housing and welfare at Wigan Council said: “The government criteria for the self-isolation grants is very strict, which has led to a high number of the applications we have received being rejected.

“Residents who are not eligible for the self-isolation grant maybe able to access further support and advice through our wider welfare offer including emergency utility payments and food.

“Our seven community hubs across the borough have also been doing a fantastic job throughout the pandemic in ensuring our residents can access all the help they need through our online referral form.

“We can help anybody whether they are self-isolating or not from providing digital support to accessing essential items or food.”

Have you had problems accessing the self-isolating grant? Share your experience with us. Ring our newsdesk (01942) 506271 or email [email protected]

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