Fantastic news! The petition to protect NHS prescription support for people with coeliac disease has now surpassed 13,000 signatures, meaning it’s ready to be delivered to 10 Downing Street. This is a huge step forward in ensuring that those who rely on gluten-free prescriptions continue to receive the support they need.
For those with coeliac disease, maintaining a strict gluten-free diet is essential. However, gluten-free foods often come with a much higher price tag. The NHS has traditionally helped by providing gluten-free staples like bread and flour on prescription.
Recently though, policy changes and budget constraints have led several Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to reduce or withdraw this vital support, creating a postcode lottery in care. Many patients now struggle to afford or access the gluten-free foods they need to manage their condition effectively.
The petition urges the UK Government to:
- Update guidance for local health boards to emphasize the importance of gluten-free diets in managing coeliac disease and remind them of their duty to reduce health inequalities.
- Work with Coeliac UK and healthcare professionals to develop best practices for keeping gluten-free prescriptions accessible to those in need.
The overwhelming response to this petition shows just how important this issue is to the coeliac community. Delivering it to the Prime Minister is a significant move toward safeguarding essential NHS services for those who depend on them.
If you haven’t added your name yet, there’s still time to make a difference. Visit the petition page on Change.org and show your support today.
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