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Reeves Extends Freeze on NHS Prescription Charges in England for 2026/27

The freeze offers short-term relief before the 26 November Budget.

Overview

  • The per-item charge will remain £9.90 for the next prescription year.
  • Three- and 12-month Prescription Prepayment Certificates stay at £32.05 and £114.50, with the HRT certificate also frozen.
  • The government estimates the freeze will save patients about £12 million next year.
  • Pharmacy leaders welcomed the step but urged ministers to abolish charges, warning some patients skip medicines due to cost.
  • England remains the only UK nation that levies most prescription fees, extending a freeze first introduced in April.