Extension of period over which Covid-19-related easements to employment and support allowance rules remain in force

New regulations

New regulations have been issued that extend the expiry dates for Covid-19-related easements in relation to employment and support allowance (ESA).

In force from 12 November 2021, the Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit (Coronavirus Disease) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 (SI.No.1158/2021) extend provisions within the Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit (Coronavirus Disease Regulations 2020 from 12 November 2021 until 24 March 2022.

As a result, until 24 March 2022, ESA claimants who meet the eligibility conditions and are infected with Covid-19, or self-isolating in line with government guidance, or are looking after a child (or qualifying young person) who falls into either of these categories -

• can be treated as having limited capability for work for the purposes of ESA without the requirement to provide any medical evidence or undergo a work capability assessment; and
• can receive ESA from day one of the claim without the need to serve waiting days.

SI.No.1158/2021 is available from legislation.gov.uk

NB - corresponding provision has been made in Northern Ireland by the Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 (SR.No.285/2021).