Free Things You Can Get on the NHS

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.

Quick check: If you receive Universal Credit, income-based JSA, ESA, or Pension Credit, you automatically qualify for most of the freebies below. Always show your benefit letter or HC2 certificate when asked.

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 — apply for a Medical Exemption Certificate via your GP)
  • Have a continuing physical disability that prevents you leaving home without help
  • Receive certain benefits (Universal Credit, income-based JSA, ESA, Income Support, Pension Credit)
  • Hold a valid HC2 certificate (low income scheme)
Not sure if you qualify? Apply for an HC1 form at your GP or pharmacy, or download from gov.uk/help-nhs-costs. If you get an HC2 certificate, it covers prescriptions, dental, eye tests, and glasses.

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

Even if you don't qualify for free treatment, NHS dental care is subsidised — Band 1 (check-up) £26.80, Band 2 (fillings) £73.50, Band 3 (crowns, dentures) £319.10.

Free Eye Tests

Free NHS sight tests if you:

  • Are under 16, or 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. The voucher amount depends on your prescription. Children and those on means-tested benefits can get a more generous voucher.

Healthy Start Vouchers

If you're pregnant or have a child under 4 and receive qualifying benefits, you get free weekly vouchers (£4.25/week) to spend on milk, fruit, vegetables, and infant formula, plus free vitamins. Apply at healthystart.nhs.uk.

Free NHS Vaccines & Health Checks

  • NHS Health Check — free for adults aged 40–74 every 5 years
  • Flu vaccine — free for over-65s, pregnant women, those with certain health conditions, and carers
  • Shingles vaccine — free for those aged 70–79
  • All childhood vaccines — 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. Find local services via your GP or NHS Better Health.

Free Talking Therapies

NHS Talking Therapies offers free CBT, counselling and other therapies. No GP referral needed in most areas. Self-refer at NHS.uk.

Apply for an HC1 form if you think you might qualify for help with NHS costs. It's free to apply and could save you hundreds per year. Download from GOV.UK or pick up from your GP surgery.