Health Benefits

There are a number of National Health Service (NHS) benefits that parents and carers may claim for their children. Women who are pregnant or who have had a baby in the last 12 months will get free prescriptions and free NHS dental treatment with a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate. Ask your doctor, nurse, midwife or health visitor for an FW8 form which they will sign for you.

Children under 16 or under 18 in full-time education and adults who get Income Support or income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance are entitled to free prescriptions, dental treatment, eyesight tests and vouchers for glasses. Adults on these benefits may also get help with fares to hospitals and payments from the Social Fund. Others on low income may claim help under the Low Income Scheme, with a form from your doctor, dentist, optician, Jobcentre Plus or http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HealthCosts/1128.aspx

For more information call the NHS Help with Health Costs division on 0845 850 1166 or visit http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HelpWithHealthCosts.aspx  For general information on rights and benefits in pregnancy visit www.nhs.uk/pregnancy