In the UK, prescriptions are currently free for those living in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Those living in England are charged £9.35 per prescription (rising to £9.65 from 1 April 2023). This is unfair. England is part of the United Kingdom and I am calling for the government and health officials to change this so that everyone living in England can benefit too from prescription charges. 

I have been to see my GP surgery a number of times over the last year about the same problem and each time they have given me new medication to try to see if it solves the issue. Each time the prescription has cost me £9.35! I am on my 5th medication now. 

The cost of living at the moment has sky rocketed and lots of people are choosing between heating, eating and looking after their health. Many people cannot afford the high costs of prescription charges. I know officials will say that those who do not qualify for free prescriptions can sign up for the NHS Prepayment Certificate (see here for eligibility: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs which can help those requiring regular medication but the cost of a yearly subscription is £111.60 (from 1 April). I fear that many people will choose not to seek medical help or just not follow through to obtain essential medication due to the rising costs. 

I am calling the for government and health officials to change this system so that the whole of the UK (not just certain parts) can benefit from free prescription charges.