Mulholland welcomes restoration of free NHS health support for Universal Credit families in NI

Alliance MLA for North Antrim, Sian Mulholland, has welcomed the restoration of automatic entitlement to free NHS sight tests, dental treatment, and travel costs for eligible Universal Credit recipients in Northern Ireland.

The change, which comes into effect on 1 December 2025, will benefit over 195,000 people, including thousands of families across North Antrim.

Ms Mulholland, who has consistently campaigned for the reinstatement of automatic support, said:

“From the moment the Assembly returned, I urged the Health Minister to act on this issue. Organisations were clear that unnecessary paperwork was creating real barriers for people trying to access essential support.”

The Help with Health Costs (HwHC) scheme offers crucial assistance for dental treatment, eye tests, glasses or contact lenses, and travel to health and social care appointments.

Until now, Universal Credit claimants in Northern Ireland had to apply manually, unlike recipients of legacy benefits who received support automatically.

Commenting on the impact for local families, Ms Mulholland added:

“This is excellent news for many families across North Antrim. No one should face barriers to basic healthcare. Reintroducing automatic passporting means people can access dental, optical, and travel support quickly and easily. It’s a simple but meaningful change that will make a real difference for households.”

Automatic passporting will apply to Universal Credit recipients with no earnings or a take-home pay below £435, or up to £935 where a child payment or limited capability for work applies. Those outside these thresholds can continue to apply under the Low Income Scheme.

Ms Mulholland emphasised the wider significance of the policy change:

“This change brings Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK and ensures that more people can access the healthcare they need without unnecessary delays. It is a practical step that removes barriers to essential services and helps tackle health inequalities in our communities. I urge anyone eligible to make sure they take advantage of this support.”

The reinstatement of automatic entitlement marks a major step forward in improving access to essential healthcare services for families and vulnerable individuals across Northern Ireland.