Help with paying for your prescriptions

Advice and Information - 22 January 2024

The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some can afford. Find out what help is out there to help you cover the cost of your medication.
prescription being handed to pharmacist

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You have the right to free prescriptions if:

  • You are 60 or over
  • You are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate
  • You have a continuing physical disability that stops you going out without help from another person, and you have a valid medical exemption certificate
  • You have a long-term health condition. People with certain medical conditions can get free NHS prescriptions by applying for a valid medical exemption certificate 
  • You are an NHS inpatient

You are entitled to a free prescription if you or your partner receive the following benefits:

If you are not eligible for free prescriptions, you can save money through a Prescription prepayment certificate. This certificate lets you pay a fee upfront to cover all your NHS prescriptions, including dental, no matter how many you need.

Find out about the low income scheme and further information and advice.

You might also be interested in

Cost-of-Living Impact Report

Healthwatch England, the national body who oversee local Healthwatch, developed a survey to understand how the rising cost-of-living is having an impact on people’s physical and mental health and whether it is affecting their ability to access health and social care and maintain a healthy life.

We used an amended version of this survey to find out people’s experiences in Redbridge.


Report
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Winter health advice

Healthwatch England have produced a number of helpful articles with information on how to get the most of health and care services this winter.
Advice and Information