A BOROUGH leader is urging residents told to isolate at home because of coronavirus by the NHS’s Test and Trace service to claim their lump sum payment of £500.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Council, wants those entitled to apply for the benefit as soon as possible now the local system has gone live.

Residents on low incomes who will lose pay and who cannot work at home can apply to the council online.

The payment is backdated from September 28.

Cllr Miles Parkinson said, “Isolating at home is one of the best ways to combat the spread of coronavirus but we know that some of our residents will not be paid and cannot work at home.

"No one should be penalised for doing their best to help everyone.

"In just two short weeks, our officers have put the Test and Trace Support scheme together and we aim to make the £500 payments within three working days once all evidence has been received and verification checks have been made.

"If you cannot apply online, you can apply over the phone."

Applicants must be receiving low-income benefits, although others may be entitled to a discretionary payment.