The NHS provides far more than just free GP appointments. Millions of people miss out on free prescriptions, dental treatment, glasses, wigs, and more every year — simply because they don't know they're entitled to them. Here's the full list.
Free NHS Prescriptions
Prescriptions are free if you:
- Are aged 60 or over
- Are aged under 16
- Are aged 16–18 and in full-time education
- Are pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months (get a Maternity Exemption Certificate via your midwife)
- Have a permanent freestanding medical condition (diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid conditions, certain others — apply for a Medical Exemption Certificate via your GP)
- Have a continuing physical disability that prevents you leaving home without help from another person
- Receive certain benefits (Universal Credit, income-based JSA, ESA, Income Support, Pension Credit)
- Hold a valid HC2 certificate (low income scheme)
Need multiple prescriptions? A Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) caps your costs at around £111/year — worth it if you need 3+ items per quarter.
Free NHS Dental Treatment
Free dental treatment is available if you:
- Are under 18 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- Are pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months
- Hold an HC2 certificate (low income)
- Receive Universal Credit, income-based JSA, ESA, or Income Support
- Are an NHS inpatient
Even if you don't qualify for free treatment, NHS dental care is subsidised — Band 1 (check-up) is £26.80, Band 2 (fillings) is £73.50, Band 3 (crowns, dentures) is £319.10.
Free Eye Tests
Free NHS sight tests if you:
- Are under 16
- Are under 19 in full-time education
- Are 60 or over
- Are registered blind or partially sighted
- Have diabetes or glaucoma, or are considered at risk of glaucoma
- Receive certain benefits or have an HC2 certificate
Free Glasses or Contact Lenses
You get a voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses if you qualify for free eye tests (most of the groups above). The voucher amount depends on your prescription. Children and those receiving means-tested benefits can get a more generous voucher.
Free Wigs and Fabric Supports
Free or subsidised wigs (for hair loss due to illness or treatment) and surgical fabric supports (e.g. trusses, stockings) are available if you hold an HC2 certificate or receive qualifying benefits. Ask your hospital or GP about an HG1 form.
Healthy Start Vouchers
If you're pregnant or have a child under 4 and receive qualifying benefits, you get free weekly vouchers worth £4.25/week (more if pregnant with twins) to spend on cow's milk, fruit, vegetables, and infant formula. You also get free vitamins. Apply at healthystart.nhs.uk.
Free NHS Vaccines & Health Checks
- NHS Health Check — free for adults aged 40–74, every 5 years, checks risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease
- Flu vaccine — free for over-65s, pregnant women, those with certain health conditions, and carers
- COVID-19 vaccine — free for all eligible groups
- RSV vaccine — free for adults aged 75–79 and pregnant women
- Shingles vaccine — free for those aged 70–79
- Childhood vaccines — all fully free on the NHS vaccination schedule
Free Stop Smoking Support
NHS Stop Smoking services are free and can include behavioural support and free or discounted nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, etc.). Find local services via your GP or NHS Better Health.
Other Free Services
- NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT) — free talking therapy for anxiety, depression, and stress. Self-refer at NHS.uk
- Community pharmacist consultations — free Pharmacy First service for minor conditions
- NHS 111 online and by phone — free 24/7 health advice
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