FREE PRESCRIPTIONS SAVE THE AVERAGE SCOT £188.10 A YEAR

SNP MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, Keith Brown, has highlighted a new report from the Trussell Trust which shows the difference that the SNP policy of free prescriptions is making in reducing the cost of living in Scotland. 

The recent Trussell Trust shows the hardship facing working people receiving Universal Credit, finding that 68% of working households that receive universal credit to supplement their income have gone without essentials like prescriptions – which cost £9.90 per prescription in England. 

Thanks to the SNP this does not apply in Scotland. Everyone, regardless of income status, has free access to prescriptions – ensuring that everyone can access the vital medication they need.  

In Scotland, the average person receives 19 prescriptions per year, at no additional cost – meaning that the average person saves at least £188.10 a year, compared to if they lived in England. 

   Despite severe financial constraints on the Scottish Government’s budget due to Westminster cuts, the SNP is committed to maintaining the social contract with the people of Scotland, that ensures that regardless of a person’s financial status, they have access to essential services such as prescriptions, further education and additional health support. 

Commenting, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane Keith Brown said:

“Free prescriptions are a vital part of the social contract the SNP has with the people of Scotland, and Clackmannanshire and Dunblane – no matter what your income status is it is essential that you have access to medical treatment, at no extra cost.  

“This Trussell Trust report indicates exactly how vital a policy this is as over two thirds of working households receiving universal credit across the UK have to go without essential items, such as prescriptions. 

“The average Scot receives 19 free prescriptions a year – meaning the average Scot saves £188.10 a year on free prescriptions – a significant help with the cost of living for everyone across Scotland. 

“Despite continuing Westminster austerity under Labour, the SNP will continue to maintain this social contract with the people of Scotland, that ensures that Scottish taxpayers get the best deal anywhere in the UK.”