hi lesleyanne2,i have been type2 for nealy 12 years,and the first thing i got when i was daignosed was a voucher from the diabetic nurse at our health centre,it allowed me to buy a meter for half price (£6) at my local chemist,all the other bits like needles and test strips were on prescription (free)..type 2 is still a serious condition that needs to be treated and for you the sufferer to monitior your condition,i have changed doctors a couple of times due to moving house,but not once has any of the doctors ever said to me 'you dont need test strips or a meter',a meter would give you better control of your type 2.no wonder so many diabetics are suffering if there not getting the proper care they need,i wish you well and fingers crossed that you get a meter (i have seen them for £4 in my local asda)..so good luck lesleyanne2.x regards den.