A few things to update you on since yesterday.

• there is bound to be disruptions to tests as some examiners have to self-isolate and some may fall into categories that will need to stay away from testing.  We are aware that a number of test centres are already experiencing cancelled tests.

• pregnant women are now considered in the at risk category so you will need to discuss with them what they want to do about their lessons.  Often women are keen to complete lessons before the baby is due but may now want to consider cancelling until they are less at risk.

• if anyone within a household contracts the virus the whole household must isolate themselves for at least 14 days.

Thanks to member Gary Fossey for the following valuable information from The Department of Work & Pensions:

As part of the Government’s strategy to support people affected COVID-19, the Department for Work and Pensions is making a number of changes to benefit processes to ensure appropriate financial help is available through the welfare system.

People who are prevented from working because of a risk to public health are able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance.   Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will now be available for eligible individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, or those who are unable to work, because they are self-isolating in line with Government advice.  This is in addition to the change announced that SSP will be payable from day one instead of day four for affected individuals.

More specifically, for self-employed people who claim Universal Credit, rules will be relaxed so they are not financially worse off – the Minimum Income Floor (an assumed level of income) will not be applied for a period of time.

As you will appreciate, the situation is developing quickly, as is the Government’s commitment to review the measures we have already put in place.  To receive the latest news, please visit the dedicated area of the GOV.UK website at:

www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

Further information about different types of benefits, including how to claim, can also be found online at: www.understandinguniversalcredit.gov.uk/coronavirus

I hope you find the above useful and reassures you that people will not be penalised for doing the right thing during this challenging time.

You can find the NASP guidelines on Coronavirus here.

 

The ADINJC is a national association run by ADIs on a not-for-profit basis.  We work tirelessly to inform, represent and support our members, and to promote the interests of our profession.