Free prescriptions for Care leavers
We’re really pleased to share some encouraging news for care-experienced young people across England.
The Government has announced new support that will give care leavers free access to prescriptions, dental care and eye care up to the age of 25. This is a meaningful step forward and one that many in the care sector have been calling for over a long period of time.
What does this mean in practice?
Under the new measures, young people who have been in care will now be entitled to:
Free NHS prescriptions up to age 25
Free dental care, including check-ups and treatment
Free eye care, including eye tests and support with glasses where needed
This removes a significant financial barrier at a time when many young people are managing independence for the first time — often while juggling education, training, work, housing and their wellbeing.
Why this matters
We know that young people leaving care are more likely to experience health inequalities. Something as simple as paying for a prescription, booking a dental appointment, or replacing broken glasses can feel overwhelming — especially when money is tight.
By extending free access to these essential services, young people can:
Look after their health without worrying about cost
Access preventative care earlier
Maintain routines that support both physical and mental wellbeing
This change recognises something we strongly believe at Three Circles — that support shouldn’t suddenly stop at 18. Many care-experienced young people still need practical, emotional and structural support well into early adulthood.
More than healthcare
Alongside the health measures, the Government has also announced further steps to improve opportunities for care leavers, including:
A guaranteed interview scheme for NHS roles, supporting access to employment
Paid internship opportunities within the NHS
Improved information-sharing between services to support safeguarding and continuity of care
Together, these changes aim to remove some of the barriers that care-experienced young people face when moving into adulthood.
Our commitment at Three Circles
At Three Circles, we welcome any change that helps young people feel healthier, more secure and better supported as they build their independence. Our foster carers and staff see every day how important stability, encouragement and access to the right support can be.
We will continue to:
Advocate for care-experienced young people
Help young people understand their rights and entitlements
Support carers to navigate changes and access the right services
Work alongside local authorities and partners to ensure no one misses out on support they are entitled to