NHSBSA fine for non authorised signature

I collected medication back in April 2025, when collecting I wasn’t asked by pharmacy staff to confirm my exemption eligibility or sign at prescription as I assumed everything was done electronically. I received a PCN from NHSBSA stating that I had ticked the incorrect exemption code and for that they are fining me for that reason.

My last prescription before this was collected and signed for by myself in 2022. My exemption code was ‘Income Support’ as I was receipt of Universal Credit (this fell under the same exemption code back then as there was no option for UC).

I requested a copy of my signed prescription slip and discovered that the signature on the slip was not mine nor was the ‘on behalf of patient’ ticked. The exemption code was also ‘Job Seekers Allowance’. The slip was in fact fraudulently signed on behalf of me with my authorisation or consent.

Had I been given the opportunity to sign the slip myself, I would have selected the ‘Universal Credit’ exemption code as I have never received Jobseeker’s Allowance. I also would have show evidence of this. My problem now is that although I am in receipt of Universal Credit, my take home pay is above the threshold so I am not entitled to free prescriptions. I may have been sent a PCN for this but have been told it would have been cancelled as I was honest about receiving Universal Credit and I would only have to pay the standard £9.90 prescription fee.

I’m currently going back and forth with NHSBSA trying to appeal the PCN but they are adamant that I signed the form and ticked that I am on Job Seekers Allowance. I have written to the pharmacy and they are not taking accountability for their error.

Any advice on how else I can escalate this and not pay the PCN, I honestly believe I have done nothing wrong.