Health and wellbeing discounts

If the person you care for or you yourself are struggling with a disability or condition, you may be entitled to receive some extra money to help you cope.

For example some benefits such as Pension Credit are known as 'passport' benefits enabling you to access other services such as dental care or optical support for free or at a reduced cost.

You could contact our advisers at advice@carersuk.org to explore if you might be entitled to any extra help.

What are medical exemption certificates?

A medical exemption certificate could enable a person to receive free NHS prescriptions if they have a particular condition or need support from someone to be able to go out because of a physical condition or disability.

If you think this applies to your circumstances, you could speak to your doctor and request an application form. You can find out more about the criteria and how to apply here: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check-if-you-have-nhs-exemption/medical-exemption-certificates

Keeping well

As a primary carer, you may be entitled to a free flu jab. If they are clinically at risk, the person you care for should be entitled to a free flu jab too.

For more information, see our webpage: Flu jabs | Carers UK

Could you claim money back for care costs?

You may be able to claim back money you have paid towards products or services associated with somebody's health needs. 

These are called 'disability-related expenses'. Find out more on this page: Disability-related expenses | Carers UK.

If you have a paid job, could your employer help?

If you having caring responsibilities alongside paid employment, you may be able to claim back some medical and health-related expenses through your employer's health insurance scheme. Contact your HR team to see what policies they have in place.

See our guide for more guidance on hospital and care-related costs and ways to save money: Guide to saving on health and care costs | Carers UK