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<p>The Government has announced a wide-ranging package of measures to support employees
affected by Covid-19.</p><p>Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will now be available for individuals
diagnosed with Covid-19 or those who are unable to work because they are self-isolating
in line with government guidance. This is in addition to the change announced by the
Prime Minister that SSP will be payable from day one instead of day four for affected
individuals.</p><p>Those who are not eligible for SSP can now more easily make a claim
for Universal Credit or Contributory Employment and Support Allowance:</p><p>· For
the duration of the outbreak, the requirements of the Universal Credit Minimum Income
Floor will be temporarily relaxed for those who have Covid-19 or are self-isolating,
ensuring self-employed claimants will receive support. ·</p><p>- People will be able
to claim Universal Credit and access advance payments upfront without the current
requirement to attend a jobcentre if they are advised to self-isolate.</p><p>- Contributory
Employment and Support Allowance will be payable, at a rate of £73.10 a week for those
over 25, for eligible people affected by COVID-19 or self-isolating in line with advice
from day one of sickness, rather than day eight.</p><p> </p><p>From Friday 20 March
onwards, those who are advised to self-isolate will be able to obtain an “isolation
note” by contacting NHS 111 , rather than by visiting a doctor.</p><p> </p><p>The
Budget also announced a £500 million Hardship Fund to help Local Authorities to support
economically vulnerable people and households.</p><p>Banks and building societies
are also ready and able to support consumers affected by Covid-19. On 17 March, the
Chancellor announced on behalf of the sector that banks and building societies will
offer a 3-month ‘mortgage holiday’ for borrowers that are financially struggling with
their repayments. This forbearance measure will enable affected borrowers to defer
their mortgage payments for up to three months while they get back on their feet.
Customers who are concerned about the current financial situation should get in touch
with their lender at the earliest possible opportunity.</p>
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