Second pairs for children and adults – application process
17 August 2021
Patients are not automatically entitled to a spare pair of spectacles of the same prescription under GOS, but permission may be sought from the NHS England Regional Local Team (RLT) to supply a second pair in “exceptional circumstances” by submitting a second pair application form.
Second pairs should not be provided “just in case” where there is no evidence of need. This guidance therefore explains what are normally considered as “exceptional circumstances” for these purposes.
Second pairs for children
Applications for second pairs will normally be approved if: A child is aged seven or under and the prescription falls into the GOS 3 band B or above and there is a history of spectacle loss or breakage (two or more repairs in six months)
or
A child is aged over seven or is a “looked after child” and they have a further illness that causes the frequent breakage/loss, the prescription falls into the GOS 3 band B or above, there is a history of spectacle loss or breakage (two or more repairs in six months) and there is evidence to suggest that the patient’s education or quality of life is likely to be affected if they are without their spectacles.
Second pairs may also be approved with discretion for children of any age if:
The prescription falls into the GOS 3 band, is in voucher A (those children with high A values may still be at risk) and a clinical adviser has reviewed the case and is satisfied that the application meets the necessary criteria.
Second pairs for adult
It is rare that a request will be made for an adult to have a second pair. However, where an application is made the criteria for approval will be similar to that for older children.
All applications for second pair or non-tolerance vouchers must be sent to your NHS England local team using the standard national templates.
1. Complete the second pair voucher application form
2. Submit the completed form to your NHS England local team
3. The local team will normally notify you of their decision in one week
4. Once you have received a decision from NHS England, you must retain a copy of the application form for your records for post payment verification purposes
5. If the application has been approved, you should submit a GOS3 to PCSE.
Download a copy of the application form here
Reference: 
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