Release date: May 26, 2021
Photo: New Africa – stock.adobe.com
Nine parts of England with higher coronavirus infection rates will pilot the studies to encourage people at greatest risk of catching and transmitting Covid-19 to come forward for testing and successfully self-isolate if they test positive
Greater Manchester is said to be one of nine areas across England to explore more ways to help people isolate themselves.
Nine parts of England with higher coronavirus infection rates will pilot the studies to encourage people at greatest risk of catching and transmitting Covid-19 to come forward for testing and successfully self-isolate if they test positive.
The areas funded from a £ 12 million pot are Greater Manchester; Lancashire, Blackburn & Darwen, Blackpool; Yorkshire and Humber; Cheshire and Merseyside; Somerset; plus areas of London, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire.
The government is already supporting a £ 2 million pilot in the Greater Manchester area to identify ways for people to self-isolate.
This includes “support and engagement teams” who work with households within 24 hours of a positive test to develop a bespoke self-isolation plan.
There will be buddy services for people in need of mental health support and language support for those who do not speak English as a first language.
There will also be social support – for example increasing the existing social support for vulnerable adults. – and alternative accommodation for people in overcrowded houses.
Health and Welfare Secretary Matt Hancock said: “From the start of this global pandemic, the UK public has made tremendous sacrifices and played their part whenever asked – social distancing, self-isolation, testing and now finally the push.
“Variants have the potential to be a Trojan horse to our hard-won progress, and it’s more important than ever that we do everything we can to show them the exit door, follow the rules, and self-isolate if requested.
“We know how difficult self-isolation is for many people and these pilots will help us find the best ways to support people and make it easier for everyone to do their part.”
James Jamieson, chairman of the Local Government Association, said, “Rapidly addressing local outbreaks and helping people to self-isolate when needed is critical to our continued fight against the coronavirus.
“These pilots provide further insight into what will best help those who test positive and their contacts do what is right to protect themselves, their families and their larger communities.
“All councils continue to use their unique local knowledge and connections to reach areas where they are most needed, and work with the government in our joint national efforts to stop the spread and keep fall rates as low as possible to hold on to a return to our normal way of life. “
