Help with prescriptions, dental costs and hospital travel
A practical guide to NHS prescription, dental, optical and travel cost help when appointments or medication are becoming expensive.
Plain-English UK support. Calm steps, no shame, and no need to do everything at once.
Help with prescriptions, dental costs and hospital travel: the simple version
A plain-English guide to help with prescriptions, dental costs and hospital travel.
This guide is for people who need practical support, reduced costs or a clearer next step. Start with one small action: check the eligibility section, gather one piece of evidence, then use the official or provider route linked further down the page.
Quick answer
Some people can get help with NHS prescriptions, dental care, sight tests, glasses or travel to hospital appointments. The route depends on age, benefits, income, location and the type of appointment.
Check the route before paying
If you are on certain benefits, some help may be automatic. If you are on a low income but do not get those benefits, the NHS Low Income Scheme may still be worth checking.
Hospital travel costs
Help with travel is usually linked to eligible NHS treatment, certain benefits or a low-income certificate. Keep appointment letters, receipts and travel details where possible.
What to do today
Use the official NHS eligibility checker before assuming you cannot get help. If you already paid, check whether a refund route exists and the deadline for claiming.
At a glance
- Best first step: check eligibility and gather the most recent letter, bill or evidence that explains your situation.
- Good for: people who need practical, low-pressure support rather than a long list of jargon.
- Helpful next step: save this guide into Your Unique Support if you want to build a simple plan.
Routes can change, so always check final eligibility on the official provider, council, charity or government page.