A new COVID-19 pilot scheme helping Square Mile and Hackney residents who must self-isolate but can’t do so at home has been backed by the City of London Corporation.

The project, run by the City of London Corporation and Hackney Council, offers self-catering apartments in Euston to people who test positive and must isolate for the 10-day period.

Those who live with the person who has tested positive and are also required to self-isolate can receive free accommodation at a hotel in Bloomsbury.

The scheme, which is funded by NHS Test and Trace, is available to people who are unable to self-isolate because of overcrowding at home.

Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, Catherine McGuinness, said:

“For some people, self-isolation is really challenging due to their living or working situations.

“This pilot scheme will help us tackle those challenges head on, helping residents who become infected or live with someone who has tested positive.

“Ultimately, our residents will be given help to keep their loved ones and the wider community safe from COVID-19.”

The scheme will also help residents access the £500 payment for those who may lose income due to the legal requirement to self-isolate.

Alongside this, support will be offered for any emergency food or medication deliveries required, and easy access will be given to PCR tests and PPE equipment if needed.

Verification of the positive COVID-19 test will be necessary to access the pilot scheme which began in early July.

If you have tested positive for COVID or live with someone who has tested positive and need support call City and Hackney Isolation Support on 020 8356 3111 and press option 3.