The Low Income Scheme is a resource from the NHS which helps to cover the costs of prescriptions, dental, eyecare, healthcare travel, wigs and fabric support for all students. By filling out a HC1 form you could receive either a HC2, which provides full help with health costs, or HC3 certificate, which provides limited help with health costs. As part of your application, you will need to show proof any student loan, bursaries or grants that you may have received. Your application will be assessed within 18 working days and then you’ll get your certificate within 4 weeks, these certificates are valid from anywhere from 6 months to 5 years depending on your situation. The HC1 form can seem really daunting at first, which is completely understandable, however there will be certain parts that won’t apply to you. You don’t need to include the people you live with in accommodation, so if that applies to you, you can tick no on part 3 and if you don’t work, then you won’t need to fill out part 6. There are parts of the form that everyone will need to fill out such as 1, 7 and 8.
Let’s say though you get a HC2 certificate but beforehand you paid for something covered by it. Well, if it was within 3 months of the date that you paid any charges for it then you can fill in a HC5 form. If you do not qualify for the low income scheme, then there are still alternative options for you. The university offers an emergency hardship fund in which is available to apply and see the criteria. These forms can be found online, in the advice centre or in the Student Union reception. By scanning the QR code it’ll take you to the NHS Low Income Scheme website.
Or click this link: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-low-income-scheme
