The Labour government has announced a continued freeze on NHS prescription charges starting this April, ensuring that the cost of a single prescription will stay at £9.90. This decision is expected to save patients around £12 million next year, providing vital financial relief during ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized that no one should risk their health due to the inability to afford medication. “We are extending the cash freeze on prescription charges to help households facing economic pressures,” she said. Since Labour took office, NHS waiting lists have decreased by 230,000, with further improvements planned in the upcoming Budget aimed at reducing waiting times, lowering living costs, and managing national debt.
People receiving at least one of the following benefits are entitled to free NHS prescriptions: Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, and Universal Credit.
Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for the Department of Health & Social Care, added, “Our government puts patients first. Freezing prescription charges again means putting money back into the pockets of millions. We have also made the morning-after pill free at all pharmacies and are improving access to healthcare locally to reduce travel expenses. We are committed to fixing the NHS so it is there for everyone when they need it.”
This prescription charge freeze is part of a broader effort to support public health and ease financial burdens amid current economic challenges.