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<p>The Government has announced an unprecedented package to support individuals through
this difficult time. This includes the introduction of the Coronavirus Job Retention
and Self-Employment Income Support Schemes, as well as injecting an additional £8bn
into the welfare system.</p><p> </p><p>DWP has laid new regulations to ensure that
people asked to isolate by the Test and Trace service will be eligible for Statutory
Sick Pay (SSP) if they are unable to work from home. This is in addition to changes
already made, which make SSP payable from day one rather than day four of absence
from work. Employees will still be entitled to claim SSP from their employers even
if they are asked to self-isolate several times. The SSP Rebate Scheme was announced
at Budget to support SMEs which may face a financial strain due to staff absences
caused by Covid-19.</p><p> </p><p>Self-employed people are eligible for “new style”
Contributory Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if they are incapable of work
due to Covid-19, including all those who are required to self-isolate according to
Government guidance. The Government has made it easier for people to claim by removing
the seven-day waiting period which means people can get support from day one.</p><p>
</p><p>The Government is committed to helping the lowest paid through the coronavirus
outbreak, and the welfare system is best placed to provide this support.</p>
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