Can I have my glasses paid for?
No, unfortunately you cannot get free glasses, lenses or contact lenses if you are blind or partially sighted.
But you can get NHS vouchers that will help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses if you:
- are aged under 16, or aged under 19 and in full-time education
- or are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher (your optician can tell you about this)
- receive a means-tested benefit (specifically Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit)
- are entitled to, or named on, either a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate or a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2). People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help.
The value of your voucher will depend on the strength and complexity of your prescription.
Your optician will require proof of your entitlement to an NHS voucher before they are able to issue you with one.
Further information about free NHS eye tests and optical vouchers can be found on the NHS website.
