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NHS prescription charges

29 April 2025

Proposing MP
Wes Streeting Lab
Ilford North
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The Prime Minister has announced a freeze on NHS prescription charges in England for the first time in three years.

Action Requested

The government will maintain the single charge for prescriptions at £9.90 and keep PPC prices unchanged, saving patients around £18 million in 2025-26. This action is part of a broader plan to address the cost of living crisis.

Key Facts

  • The single prescription charge remains at £9.90.
  • Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) for 3 months will stay at £32.05, and 12-month PPCs at £114.50.
  • NHS wigs and fabric supports charges are frozen at current levels.
  • About 89% of prescription items in England are dispensed free to certain groups.
  • An estimated 40% of the population could benefit from the freeze.
  • The government has agreed funding with Community Pharmacy England worth an extra £617 million over 2 years.
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