A WAREHOUSE operator who had to take 20 days off due to Covid rules on self-isolating has spoken out after he was told he would not be getting any support.

Ryan Coates works full-time and is employed through an agency. His wife was tested positive last month so Ryan had to take time off, and then on January 25 Ryan tested positive for Covid.

But when he applied for the £500 Test and Trace support payment via Pendle Council’s website he was told he was not eligible.

He is now hoping to raise awareness of the issue as he feels many other people are being penalised for simply being in employment.

He said: “I think it is totally unfair on people who work full-time and then have to self-isolate.

“The reason I was told I was not eligible is because I do not claim any benefits. This just sounds as if they are penalising the working person.

“There must be a lot of other people like me who have had to self-isolate but are then told they are not eligible for any support.”

If someone has tested positive for coronavirus or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, and told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace you may be entitled to a Test and Trace Support Payment of £500. A further Test and Trace discretionary support payment is aimed at those with classed as low incomes (£20,000 a year).

During the time he was off work, Ryan, from Reedley, received £119 statutory sick pay and has had to find the remaining £1,000 to pay bills.

Pendle Council said it would not discuss individual cases and said it was providing emergency assistance grants so people can get food and essential items.

The council says there are grants available of up to £100 for food and up to £200 towards essential items such as help paying heating bills and for essential household items This scheme is being run by Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Council for Voluntary Service.

The council advised people 'in a difficult situation can apply for help via their website www.bprcvs.co.uk by clicking on funding and BPRCVS Administered Funding to get details and fill in the form. Or ring CVS on 01282 433740 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. '