A £500 payment to help people who have to self-isolate is expected to start from October 12th.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the Self-Isolation Support Grant, targeted at those on low incomes, is an "important" way of helping people who are helping others.
The grant is for people who receive Universal Credit or legacy benefits.
SNP Cabinet Secretary Shirley Anne-Somerville confirmed the move in a written answer:
She stated: "It is vital that those who are doing their part to limit the spread of COVID-19 are not financially disadvantaged by doing so.
"Therefore, the Scottish Government will introduce a new financial support package to provide support for people on low incomes who are self-isolating that would lose income if they do so, and are unable to carry out their work from home.
"The £500 Self-Isolation Support Grant will be delivered though the Scottish Welfare Fund which is administered by local authorities. This has been agreed with CoSLA and we will work with councils on delivering the scheme. The Scottish scheme is expected to start from 12 October."
Councillor Kelly Parry, who is COSLA's Community Wellbeing spokesperson, said:
“COSLA, on behalf of Scottish local government, welcomes this scheme. It will help ensure those who are affected and qualify are looked after and won’t need to go to work, which will help reduce the community spread of the virus.
Labour MSP Monica Lennon said: "It’s vital that people on low incomes who need to self-isolate are not pushed into financial hardship.
“The £500 grant is therefore welcome and accessing it should be quick and easy."
