To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the financial support in place for substitute teachers with school-age dependents, that are unable to work due to childcare responsibilities resulting from their child having to self-isolate at home after COVID close contact in school.

Changes to the Statutory Sick Pay scheme ensure that support is available to those who have been advised, by a relevant notification, to self-isolate.

If a person is unable to work and they are not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay they may be entitled to Universal Credit. More information on how to make a claim for Universal Credit, including the eligibility criteria, can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/universal-credit

Help is also available through my Department’s Discretionary Support service.

More information about the financial support available through the Discretionary Support scheme can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support