You don’t need a secret handshake. You qualify if you’re under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education. Also, if you’re on Income Support, Universal Credit, or the NHS Tax Credit Exemption, you’re in the club.
And guess what? Pregnant women and new mums with a valid maternity exemption certificate get it too. It’s like a “congratulations on growing a human” present!
How to Get Your Voucher (It’s Ridiculously Easy)
First, visit your local optician for a NHS-funded eye test. Tell them you want to check if you’re eligible for a voucher—they’ll hand you a form called HC1 (or help you apply online).
Once approved, you get a little card or letter. Take that to any optician that accepts NHS vouchers—most do—and voilà, instant discount. You can even upgrade to fancier frames and just pay the difference.
