Stephen J Manton B.Sc.(Hons.), F.C.Optom.

NHS VOUCHERS FOR SPECTACLES OR CONTACT LENSES

Vouchers are issued to those patients who:-

• are aged under 19 and in full time education

• receive INCOME SUPPORT or PENSION CREDIT GUARANTEE CREDIT

• have a NHS TAX CREDIT EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE

• receive INCOME-BASED JOB SEEKERS ALLOWANCE

• have exemption form HC2

• have been prescribed complex lenses (reduced value voucher)

Evidence of your eligibility will be required before you order your spectacles or contact lenses.

The value of the voucher is determined by the strength and type of lenses prescribed and starts at £35.50 for single vision spectacles

If you have form HC3 you may be entitled to a reduced value voucher.

If you do not meet the above requirements, but cannot afford the cost of spectacles, then you may apply on form HC1 to the Social Security office, who will determine if you are entitled to help with the costs.

If you are entitled to an NHS Voucher, we have a range of basic plastic frames which can be supplied free of charge including standard single vision or standard bifocal lenses. Altenatively you can use your voucher to help towards the cost of any other spectacles of your choice.