NHS-Funded Glasses at Leightons

If you qualify for an NHS optical voucher, you can use it towards the cost of NHS prescription glasses at Leightons. Our team will help you choose frames that feel comfortable, look great, and work perfectly with your prescription and lifestyle.

Book an NHS Sight TestFind a Leightons branch

Choosing NHS-funded glasses

Many people assume NHS glasses are limited to basic styles. In reality, your NHS voucher simply contributes towards the cost of your glasses, giving you the freedom to choose frames that suit your lifestyle, personal style, and prescription. In some cases, it can cover the full cost, meaning you could receive your glasses completely free.

From practical but trendy children’s glasses, to modern and stylish adult designs, our expert dispensing opticians will help you find frames that feel right for you.

Stylish NHS glasses for children

Children’s glasses need to do more than correct vision. They need to keep up with busy, active lives.

At Leightons, our NHS children’s glasses are designed to be:

  • Comfortable for all-day wear
  • Durable enough for active play
  • Stylish enough that children enjoy wearing them

Many children under 16, or under 19 in full-time education, qualify for NHS optical vouchers. These often cover the full cost of children’s glasses.

Book a child's NHS sight test

NHS children's frames and upgrade options include:

Lazer

+ £0

Mr Men & Little Miss

+ £20

Wolf Cubs

+ £20

Cameo

+ £30

Nike

+ £50

Charles Stone New York

+ £50

Our team will help your child choose glasses that fit properly and feel comfortable throughout the day. Stock varies at each branch.

Book your child's NHS eye test today

Modern NHS Glasses for Adults

If you qualify for an NHS optical voucher, you can use it towards the cost of prescription glasses at Leightons. Adults who qualify can choose Lazer frames at no additional cost, offering modern shapes, lightweight materials, and comfortable designs suitable for everyday wear.

Many patients also use their NHS voucher as a contribution towards other frame collections available in branch. Popular upgrade options include Cameo (+£30) and Charles Stone New York (+£50), giving you access to a wider range of styles while still benefiting from NHS funding.

Book an NHS sight test

NHS adult’s frames and upgrade options include:

Lazer

+ £0

Cameo

+ £30

Charles Stone New York

+ £50

Many patients choose to use their NHS voucher as a contribution towards other frames available in store. Our dispensing opticians will guide you through the available options and help you choose glasses that suit both your prescription and your style.

Book an NHS eye test today

How does NHS funding work?

An NHS optical voucher helps contribute towards the cost of prescription glasses or contact lenses. If you qualify, your voucher can be used towards the cost of your frames and lenses. Some of the reasons why you may be eligible include:

1

Aged under 16

2

Aged 16-19 and in full-time education

3

Receive certain benefits, such as Job Seekers Allowance

4

Have a valid HC2 certificate

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Why choose Leightons for NHS glasses?

For nearly a century, Leightons has helped generations of families see clearly and experience life with confidence. We believe everyone should have access to glasses that are comfortable, well-made, and stylish. NHS glasses should not mean compromising on quality, style, or choice.

Our experts will help you explore the options available, from free NHS frames to upgraded collections, and ensure your glasses fit perfectly and suit your everyday life.

Book an NHS sight test today
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Booking an appointment is easy - choose a time that works for you with our simple online system. Prefer to speak to someone? Call us on 0800 40 20 20 (lines open Mon–Sat, 8.30am – 5pm).

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Find your nearest branch

Whether you need expert optical or hearing care, our friendly teams are here to help. With 37 branches across the South of England, finding your local Leightons is just a click away with our branch finder.

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FAQs

NHS glasses are not always completely free, but you may be entitled to a voucher that helps cover the cost. If you qualify for NHS support, such as being under 16, under 19 in full-time education, or receiving certain benefits, you can receive an NHS optical voucher.

This voucher can be used towards the cost of glasses, and in some cases, it may cover the full price of a basic pair. If you choose frames or lenses beyond the voucher value, you can simply pay the difference.

At Leightons, we’ll guide you through your options clearly, so you can choose glasses that suit both your vision and your lifestyle.

Yes, you can upgrade your NHS glasses. The NHS voucher gives you a contribution towards your glasses, but you are free to choose from a wider range of frames and lenses.

Many people choose to upgrade for thinner lenses, additional coatings such as anti-glare, or more stylish frames. You simply pay the difference between the NHS voucher value and your chosen glasses.

We’ll always explain your options in a straightforward way, so you can make a confident, informed decision.

How often you can get NHS glasses depends on your age and clinical needs.

For most people:

  • Children under 16 can usually get a new NHS voucher once a year
  • Adults typically qualify every two years
  • You may be eligible sooner if your prescription changes significantly or if your optician recommends it for clinical reasons

If you’re unsure, we can check your eligibility and advise on the right time for your next eye test and glasses.

Yes, children can often get free NHS glasses. If your child is under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education, they are entitled to an NHS optical voucher.

In many cases, this voucher fully covers the cost of children’s glasses, especially within the NHS range. It also includes necessary lens features based on their prescription.

Our team takes extra care to make sure children feel comfortable and confident, helping them choose glasses they’ll enjoy wearing every day.

In most cases, the NHS provides one voucher per eligibility period, so a second pair of glasses is not usually covered.

However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you have a complex prescription or a specific clinical need, you may qualify for an additional pair, such as separate glasses for distance and reading.

If you would like a second pair outside of NHS eligibility, we can offer flexible options to make this more affordable, while ensuring you still receive the same level of expert care.