An HC2 certificate is issued under the NHS Low Income Scheme and provides full help with health costs in the UK. This includes free NHS prescriptions, dental treatment, sight tests, help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses, travel costs for NHS treatment, and free NHS wigs and fabric supports. To get an HC2 certificate, one needs to fill in an HC1 form, which can be downloaded or obtained from local Jobcentre Plus offices, NHS hospitals, or healthcare providers. The completed form is then sent by post to the NHS Low Income Scheme at the NHS Business Services Authority in Newcastle. The certificate typically lasts between 6 months to 5 years depending on circumstances, and it is a person's responsibility to renew it by submitting a new HC1 form before expiry. If the certificate is lost, a replacement can be requested. People with low or no income are eligible irrespective of nationality or immigration status. Additionally, asylum seekers receiving certain types of Home Office support (section 95) are automatically issued an HC2 certificate, while others may need to apply using the form. In summary, the HC2 certificate is a vital document for individuals who need financial help with NHS health costs in the UK, providing wide-ranging healthcare cost relief after applying through the NHS Low Income Scheme using the HC1 form.
