A significant gathering has taken place in the heart of London, as Coeliac UK delivered a petition to the government demanding the protection of access to gluten-free prescriptions for individuals afflicted with coeliac disease.
The charity’s action saw a strong turnout from supporters nationwide, highlighting the pressing need for continued support for those reliant on a gluten-free diet.
Coeliac disease: prescriptions being cut across the UK
Among the voices raised at Parliament Square was Katherine Clarke, a mother from Portchester who has faced the burdens of coeliac disease since her diagnosis at 23. Speaking candidly about her experiences, she said:
I have been receiving gluten-free bread prescriptions since my diagnosis in 2016. I’m a stay-at-home mum of two boys and having this support has been a lifeline for me.
She emphasised the financial and logistical challenges posed by rising bread costs and shortages in supermarkets, stating:
The cost of a gluten-free loaf compared to gluten-containing bread in recent years is ridiculous and the cost of my food shopping is only getting higher and higher.
Coeliac disease affects approximately one in 100 people in the UK and requires those diagnosed to adhere to a strict gluten-free diet as the only viable treatment. Access to gluten-free staple foods through NHS prescriptions has been integral for many, providing much-needed support.
However, recent policy changes enacted by several Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) in England have led to a withdrawal of gluten-free prescriptions in various regions, intensifying the challenge for those on a limited income with this chronic illness. This development raises concerns about food security for a vulnerable segment of the population:
Tristan Humphreys, head of advocacy and public affairs at Coeliac UK, said:
The turnout today demonstrates the strength of feeling on this issue. Patients, healthcare professionals and MPs have all come together to demand that the government takes action to prevent further health inequalities.
The sentiment clearly resonates with many as health inequalities have been amplified by these abrupt policy shifts.
Exacerbating existing health inequalities
The emotional toll of navigating coeliac disease was further illustrated by Clarke’s experience.
With her reliance on gluten-free prescriptions, she stressed the essential nature of the support these prescriptions provide amidst the sector’s mounting costs and the destabilisation of food availability. Clarke’s story is just one among many, reflecting the critical need for accessible gluten-free options that are standardised across the country.
In their petition, Coeliac UK called upon the government to issue clear and comprehensive guidance to ICBs. They insist that access to gluten-free prescriptions is a necessity and that all individuals with coeliac disease should be entitled to this support, irrespective of their geographical location.
Additionally, the charity urges policymakers to work in tandem with healthcare professionals and patients to forge best practices that address the widening gap in access to essential gluten-free staple foods.
As the dialogue surrounding health policy and the welfare of those with long-term conditions continues, the voices of affected individuals like Katherine Clarke are crucial.
Their experiences underscore the need for a robust response and a commitment to safeguarding the rights and health of disabled people and those who find themselves navigating life with dietary restrictions.
The actions taken by Coeliac UK and their supporters have highlighted a rallying call that seeks to unify healthcare, reduce disparities, and demand accountability from the powers that be.
Featured image and additional images via Coeliac UK
