NHS Freezes Prescription Charges in England for First Time in Three Years

The UK government has announced that NHS prescription charges in England will be frozen for the first time in three years, keeping the cost per item at £9.90 and maintaining pre-payment certificate prices at current levels. This measure is expected to save patients around £18 million next year and is part of a broader strategy to ease the cost-of-living crisis, alongside initiatives like expanded breakfast clubs and limits on school uniform costs. Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted that the freeze is a key part of the government's 'Plan for Change,' aimed at supporting working people and shifting healthcare delivery closer to communities. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized that the price freeze was made possible by tough budget decisions and is part of a £26 billion funding boost for the NHS. While the majority of prescriptions (about 89%) are already free for groups like pensioners, children, and those with certain medical conditions, the freeze targets working-age patients who pay for prescriptions. Campaigners have welcomed the move as a positive step for those with long-term health conditions.