Check NHS sight-test and optical-voucher eligibility in England, including children, over-60s and qualifying benefits. Ask our Shepherds Bush team for help.
Specialeyes Eyecare provides NHS and private eye tests in Shepherds Bush. In England, eligibility for an NHS-funded sight test depends on factors such as age, education, qualifying benefits and certain clinical circumstances. The criteria for help towards glasses or contact lenses are separate.
You can qualify for an NHS sight test if you are under 16, under 19 and in full-time education, or aged 60 or over. Other qualifying groups include people with diabetes or glaucoma and some people at increased glaucoma risk. Check the full NHS criteria rather than relying on this summary.
Receiving Universal Credit does not automatically make every claimant eligible for a free NHS eye test. You must meet the relevant qualifying criteria, including the applicable earnings conditions. Bring the evidence requested by the practice and check the current NHS guidance before claiming an exemption.
An optical voucher helps towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses for eligible people. Being entitled to an NHS sight test does not always mean you qualify for a voucher: being over 60 alone, for example, does not establish voucher eligibility.
The value depends on your prescription and voucher category. Ask the team how much your chosen frames and lenses will cost after any eligible voucher contribution. Do not assume every pair of glasses or specialist lens option is fully covered.
Tell us whether you want an NHS or private appointment, bring your current glasses and ask what evidence of entitlement is required. If you are not eligible, we can confirm the private eye-test fee before booking. See our eye-test page or contact the team.
For the full, current eligibility rules, visit NHS: free eye tests and optical vouchers. This summary relates to England.
No. You must meet the relevant NHS qualifying criteria, including the applicable earnings conditions. Check the current NHS guidance and bring the evidence requested by the practice.
In England, being aged 60 or over is a qualifying category for an NHS sight test. Tell the practice when booking and ask what evidence to bring.
Not necessarily. Sight-test entitlement and optical-voucher entitlement are separate. An eligible voucher contributes towards glasses or contact lenses, and the final cost depends on your prescription and chosen product.
Children under 16, and young people under 19 in full-time education, can qualify. Check the full NHS guidance and confirm the evidence needed with the practice.
You can ask about a private eye test. The practice will confirm the fee and appointment details before booking.
Find us at 128 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush, London W12 8AA. Open Monday–Saturday, 10:00–18:00. Get directions and contact details.
