NHS prescriptions and who qualifies - check if you can avoid the £9.90 cost

The NHS automatically grants free prescriptions to certain groups of people (Image: georgeclerk via Getty Images)

Prescription charges can notably increase your monthly outgoings, especially if you're on several medications. While some treatments are free, others cost £9.90 per item, meaning someone on just three treatments will have to fork out £29.70 each time they need a refill.

However, it may come as a surprise that some Brits are automatically entitled to free prescriptions when using the UK's health service. Even if you aren't eligible, there are other discounts and more affordable prepayment options available in certain situations as well.

Below, we've explored various avenues offered by the NHS to people in England. Those who think they qualify can also use the service's o