Prescriptions
In Scotland, you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions (when that prescription has been issued in Scotland).
Gluten Free food on prescription
If you have a diagnosis of coeliac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis, live in Scotland, and have registered with a GP, you can sign up to access free gluten-free foods on prescription. NHS Inform has information on the scheme and how to register.
Help with NHS costs
Certain NHS treatments are free for everyone, including emergency care and sexual health services. There are, however, some things you may need to pay for. If you are international student and you want to know more about what treatments you (and any family or children) may be able to receive free of charge, go to this website.
Everyone in Scotland under the age of 26 receives free NHS dental treatment. You don’t need to fill out any forms, this will happen automatically.
People in Scotland who ordinarily reside in the UK, or are refugees, asylum seekers, and some international students can receive free eye examinations.
You may also be eligible for assistance under the NHS Low Income Scheme whether you receive benefits or not, depending on your income. To apply, fill out an HC1 form, either online or by post. You can have a look and fill out the postal form and find out more about support with NHS costs.
Healthcare for children
It is recommended that children under 16 years of age receive eye tests every year, and young people over 16 years have a test every two years. For children who need glasses/contact lenses, you can get an NHS optical voucher to help toward the cost of these. This applies to children under 16 years, and young people from 16-18 years who are in full time education. This should happen automatically at your opticians.
The NHS has put together some resources on caring for a child
Free period products
In Scotland, it is now a legal requirement that public places have free period products available. This includes universities and local councils. Period dignity is a human right.
There are various locations on campus where you can access free period products including the Students’ Association.
Local councils in Scotland are now required by law to provide access to free period products. You can download the PickUpMyPeriod app on the App Store and Google Play to find out where you can access products in your local area.
Sexual Health
Free condoms
University
You can get hold of free condoms from the Students’ Association or if you live in Halls, from your Halls Committee.
You can also get free condoms through the committee at Saints LGBT+, Sexpression, and selected sports clubs.
St Andrews & Fife
If you are a man who has sex with men and you live in Fife, you can order free NHS condoms to your home.
Dundee & Tayside
Depending on your age, you may be able to access free condoms via the C-Card scheme in Dundee and Tayside.
You can also order free condoms online from Sexual Health Tayside.
Sexual Health Clinics
There is a sexual health clinic at NHS Tayside, and you may be able to obtain an STI self-sampling kit if you do not have symptoms, so you can test at home.
If you are under 25 and live in Fife, there is a webpage with the latest information on how to access sexual health clinics. NHS Fife also have a general page on sexual health testing which may be useful.