29 November 2016

We are very disappointed to tell you that Bedfordshire CCG has announced the decision to stop providing gluten-free foods unless there are specific circumstances whereby a dependant patient could be at risk of dietary neglect. We will be contacting the CCG to understand how they will determine which patients are eligible to continue to receive gluten-free food on prescription.

Whilst the CCGs has made this decision, we would like to stress that the final choice about what to prescribe lies with your GP. So we’d encourage you to have a discussion with them about gluten-free food on prescription if you’re concerned about the impact the policy change may have on you.

We understand the importance of access to gluten-free products on prescription for people with coeliac disease, particularly those on low incomes or those only able to reach small convenience stores which don’t stock staple gluten-free foods. We’re very concerned that the measures taken by the CCGs to save money will affect people’s ability to stick to the gluten-free diet and in turn increase the likelihood of long term complications of coeliac disease such as osteoporosis, which will cost the NHS more in the long run.

If you would like to oppose the prescription cuts, there are several things that you can do:

• Contact your local Healthwatch by contacting Healthwatch Bedford Borough or Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire:
• Healthwatch Bedford Borough enquiries@healthwatchbedfordborough.org.uk, calling on 01234 718018, or writing to Healthwatch Bedford Borough, 21-23 Gadsby Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 3HP
• Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire by emailing info@healthwatch-centralbedfordshire.org.uk, calling on 0300 303 8554 or writing to Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire, Capability House, Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR
• Contact Bedfordshire CCG by emailing enquiries@bedfordshireccg.nhs.uk, writing to NHS Bedfordshire CCG, Capability House, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR, or calling on 01525 864430
• Write to your local MP, we have a sample letter which you can use, or please feel free to write your own letter explaining how the changes will affect you
• Speak with your local GP about your individual case
• Watch out for more information on next campaign steps particularly on our website

Make your voice heard

As part of our work in opposing prescription cuts, we are looking for the people affected to act as case studies. This will enable us to give examples to the media of how this policy change has affected people with coeliac disease. To become a case study complete our case study form.

As the situation progresses, we will update our Members through direct mailings, Crossed Grain magazine and on our website.