Hi, I just received my meter yesterday. They give you 10 strips & 10 lancets to start you off. I think it depends on your doctor. I went to mine tonight & she laughed at me for wanting to test as I'm only type 2 on Metformin!
But I did order some from eBay cost approx £10 I think for box of 50. But look carefully as there is one post that is selling strips that have gone past expiry date. I don't know if that makes a big difference or not but decided not to chance it. Amazon were quite expensive.
Good luck
Amazon can appear to be your cheapest option but do ask your local pharmacist. You are entitled to purchase these at 0% VAT but most pharmacies add it on. I mentioned this to mine and they agreed to sell them to me at the zero rate so saving me the postage.