The Welsh Government has today (February 1) announced that those asked to self-isolate via the NHS Covid-19 app will now be eligible to apply for the £500 self-isolation support payment.
However, according to a statement, to allow as many people notified by the app to apply as soon as possible, a temporary workaround has been created until a digital solution is available.
Shadow Minister for Health, Angela Burns MS, has described the implementation of the scheme as confusing – and disadvantageous for those who really need the payment.
Mrs Burns said:
“Aside from the statement from the Welsh Government being confusing, the app should have been readied before this scheme was opened.
“However, what is clear is that applications still cannot be backdated to September, meaning people in Wales who need this £500 payment – and who are likely to fall into the financially vulnerable category – cannot access it and are therefore badly disadvantaged.
“The Welsh Government can’t congratulate itself over this, but must remedy both the ability to apply for a backdated payment and to sort out the app instead of the hybrid scheme it has put into place.”
