Wigs and other headwear – A guide for people affected by cancer or a blood condition

You will need a referral from a member of your healthcare team. You can ask any of the following people to refer you: 

• your chemotherapy nurse, ward nurse or clinical nurse specialist (CNS) 
• a support worker 
• a therapy radiographer 
• a support and information specialist

• Once we receive your referral, the adviser will contact you to book your appointment. 

• At your first appointment, you can choose up to three acrylic wigs from our catalogue to try. If we don’t have them in stock, we’ll order them for you.  

  Please tell the adviser if you have a confirmed allergy to acrylic. 

• Once your wigs arrive, we’ll arrange a 30-minute fitting session. You’ll be able to choose one wig to take with you. 
• Your wigs should take 7 to 10 days to arrive. If you haven’t heard from us after 14 days, please contact us.

Tip: Bring a photo showing your hair before treatment. This can help you and the adviser to recreate your style, even if you have already lost your hair. 

Appointment times 

Appointments are available Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm. 

You are welcome to drop in and browse our wig catalogue while we wait for your referral. But we can only order your chosen wigs and arrange a fitting appointment once we receive it. 

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment? 

Yes, we recommend bringing a friend or family member for support and help in choosing your wig.  

Our wig and headwear adviser can also offer advice if you’d like. 

If you don’t find a wig you like 

You don’t have to settle for one of the wigs you selected to try on. You can buy a wig elsewhere and may be exempt from VAT – please ask the supplier for details.  

Please note: You cannot use your UCLH referral outside UCLH.

The current NHS charge for a wig is £80.15.  

Can I get a wig free of charge?  

You may be able to get a wig free of charge if you: 

• are between 16 and 18 and in full-time education 
• hold a valid HC2, HC3 or tax credit exemption certificate 
• receive certain income-related benefits (full list available from our team) 
• are fitted with a wig while staying in hospital 

Please bring proof of your entitlement to your wig fitting appointment. 

Important to know: 

• Benefits that are not income-related (such as PIP or DLA) do not qualify. 
• The free prescriptions scheme for cancer does not include wigs. 
• Receiving a state pension does not mean you can have a wig free of charge. 
• If you are unsure whether you qualify for a free wig, our wig and headwear adviser will be happy to help.

How do I pay for my wig? 

If you’re not entitled to a free wig, you can pay the adviser by cash or card. 

Please remember to ask for a receipt and bring it with you when you collect your wig. 

Help available to pay for your wig 

If you’re not receiving any qualifying benefits but have a low income, you may be able to get help through the NHS Low Income Scheme. To claim, complete form HC1 available from our service, local pharmacy or your GP.

For more information about getting help with health costs, visit the NHS website or call the advice line on 0300 330 1343.

You can usually take your wig home after your fitting, if you’ve paid or shown proof of exemption.

Please note: We encourage you to take your time when choosing your wig. Once you have paid, the NHS charge is non-refundable. For hygiene reasons, you cannot return or exchange a wig if you have taken it out of the building.