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Glasses Direct and our support for NHS staff

Glasses Direct and our support for NHS staff

At Glasses Direct, we’re proud to support the NHS and the incredible healthcare professionals who keep our communities safe. From frontline staff to those working behind the scenes, their dedication deserves recognition. Our great-value eyewear is one small way we can say thank you for the commitment of NHS staff to caring for others and saving lives.

As the UK’s leading online prescription glasses retailer, we make it easy to find new glasses and sunglasses that suit your style, budget and eyecare needs. With over 1,000 stylish frames, there’s something for everyone, from affordable everyday options to Premium Designer glasses, including iconic brands like Ray-Ban® and Oakley®. Plus, our friendly opticians are always on hand to offer advice, so you get expert support and flexibility to browse in your free time without the pressure often felt in high street opticians.

As a small thank you, here’s what NHS staff can enjoy…

All NHS workers with a Blue Light Card can enjoy:

This offer applies across a wide range of frames but excludes our Premium Designer collection. If you’d prefer an alternative offer to help you save on the cost of glasses, visit our Special Offers page. Don’t forget to sign up to our emails for all the latest news and exclusive discounts.

How to claim your NHS discount

Find the Glasses Direct offer page on the Blue Light Card website. Click on the offer to claim it.

Copy your unique discount code. Paste it at checkout on the Glasses Direct website and save.

What are NHS optical vouchers and how can you use them?


If you’re entitled to an NHS optical voucher, you can use it towards the cost of your new glasses. These vouchers are available to certain groups, such as children in full-time education, people on Income Support, or those receiving specific benefits. They help cover either part or all of the cost of your prescription lenses, making essential eyecare more affordable for everyone.

Why choose Glasses Direct for new glasses?

As the most trusted online glasses retailer, here’s some of the reasons why millions of people choose Glasses Direct for their eyewear:

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Expert eyecare checks

Our qualified opticians review every order and double-check prescriptions, making sure everything runs smoothly. 

1,000s of choices

From affordable, everyday eyewear to designer frames, there’s a style for ever face shape, lifestyle and occasion.

Unbeatable value

Glasses Direct customers saved an average of 49% when shopping online with us, compared to the last time they purchased eyeglasses on the high street. This is equal to an average saving of £103!

Free 120-day returns

You can return, exchange, or get a refund on your glasses if you’re unhappy with them for any reason.

Looking after your eye health with regular eye tests

Regular eye tests are essential for maintaining good eye health. Even if you feel your vision hasn’t changed, an eye test (available in many high street opticians) can spot early signs of issues before they become bigger problems. From checking how well you see with your current glasses to monitoring eye health conditions, it’s one of the best ways to look after yourself. Remember to check if you’re eligible for a free NHS eye test. It could depend on your age, health, or income.

At Glasses Direct, we believe clear vision helps you see more and be more. Whether you’re choosing stylish new glasses, exploring varifocal lenses, or finding affordable alternatives to high street prices, we’re here to make great eyecare accessible for everyone.

Standing with the NHS: then and now

During COVID-19, we wanted to thank NHS staff for their tireless work with two key initiatives:

  • Free anti-fog cloths: In January 2021, we donated 3,500 glasses cloths to staff at Great Western Hospital in Swindon. This helped them see clearly while wearing glasses and PPE at work.
  • Free glasses for NHS staff: In 2020, we gave away 4,000 pairs of glasses as part of our ‘Free Glasses for NHS Staff’ campaign, which was widely shared and celebrated across social media.

Whether you’re here to explore the latest designs or looking for Blue Light Card savings, Glasses Direct makes it simple to get stylish glasses at unbeatable value. Browse 1,000+ styles online today and see how much you could save.