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The scheme focuses on three groups of workers in essential businesses:

1. People who are self-isolating in accordance with public health guidance because they have COVID-19, or have come into contact with someone who has COVID-19 (or have a dependent they need to care for who is sick or self-isolating);
2. People at higher risk* if they contract COVID-19,
3. People who have household members who are at higher risk* if they contract COVID-19, to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to them.

*At risk groups are:

• Those over 70. 
• People with medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions increase vulnerability to COVID-19, including respiratory conditions, such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), heart conditions, high blood pressure, kidney problems and diabetes.
• People undergoing a treatment for cancer and blood conditions that affect people’s immune systems and makes them more vulnerable to COVID-19.
• Pregnant women, although its uncertain if pregnant women are impacted by COVID-19 in the same way as other people.
• People without easy access to healthcare.

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