Eye tests, hearing aids and mobility equipment in NI

For glasses vouchers on a low income, also see help with health costs.

Free sight tests

You are entitled to free HS sight tests if you are aged 60 or over, are diagnosed as diabetic, are registered blind or partially sighted, or are a diagnosed glaucoma patient or at risk of it. You also get them on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, Income Based Employment and Support Allowance, or with an HC2 or HC3 certificate.

Children under 16 and full-time students under 19 get free sight tests on the Health Service. If you are housebound, you can arrange to have a home visit from an optometrist.

Glasses and low vision aids

On some benefits you may also get a voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Many of the magnifiers can be obtained free of charge from your local Low Vision Clinic.

Hearing aids

Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts provide hearing aids on loan and maintain them free of charge. You also have the right to have your hearing assessed. You can't get financial help from the Health Service to buy a hearing aid privately.

Equipment and help at home

You can get equipment after an assessment by an occupational therapist, district nurse or physiotherapist. All blind and visually impaired people are entitled to a health and social care assessment from their local trust. For adaptations, see the Disabled Facilities Grant.

People with severe speech or language impairment may be supported by communication aids. Occupational therapists help people who have difficulty with practical everyday tasks.

Common questions

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