The Government is proposing to raise the free prescriptions age from 60 to 66, to bring the policy in line with the state pension. The move has been criticised by opposition leaders, with Labour MP Angela Rayner saying it would be a “huge burden” for older Britons on low incomes.
The cost of an average single prescription has risen by 30 percent since 2010 to £9.35, increasing the financial burden on those with long term health conditions.
A Government spokesperson previously told Express.co.uk: “Around 90 percent of community prescription items in England are free of charge, and people don’t pay if they are on a low income, or have certain medical conditions.
“The upper age exemption, 60 years old, has not changed since 1995 and that is why we have consulted on restoring the link with the state pension age.
“We are considering the responses carefully and will respond in due course.”
READ MORE: State pension payment change – you might get sum earlier this month
Britons claiming Universal Credit can also be included, however they will need to meet certain criteria.
Another eligible group is people with a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate, which is available for those on Child Tax Credits and Working Tax Credits with a disability element, who have an income of £15,276 or less.
Britons on low incomes may be able to receive financial help through the NHS Low Income Support Scheme and obtaining a HC2 certificate.
Having this certificate provides access to free prescriptions, free NHS dental treatment, and free NHS eye tests.
The certificate also provides help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses, help with travelling to receive NHS treatment and free NHS wigs and fabric support.
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