4 November 2016

It’s come to our attention that NHS Chorley and South Ribble Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Greater Preston CCG are now reviewing their policies on access to gluten-free food on prescription. We’re spreading the word online and contacting Members directly to ensure you have the chance to make your voice heard.

Whilst the CCGs currently follow National Prescribing Guidelines for prescribing gluten-free staple foods, they are now reviewing their policies and are proposing to remove access to gluten-free foods on prescription.

What have we been doing to help?

We’re extremely concerned by the proposal and will be submitting a formal response in support of continuing access to gluten-free food on prescription. In our arguments we will focus on the importance of gluten-free staple foods on prescription to support people with coeliac disease in management and adherence to the gluten-free diet, particularly in view of cost and availability issues.

Research shows that gluten-free foods are not easy to buy in budget supermarkets and convenient stores, and that these staple foods cost 3-4 times more than gluten-containing equivalents. We will also be asking local healthcare professionals for their support.

Have your say

The consultation is open until 21 November and we would encourage you to respond to make sure your voice is heard. 

The survey can be accessed online at:

www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/V72WZRV

Alternatively, you can request a hard copy of the consultation document by calling the CCG (01772 214232).

We would also encourage you to write to your local MP, either using the sample letter available on our website, or your own letter explaining how the proposed changes would affect you.

Get involved

As part of our work in opposing prescription cuts, we are looking for the people affected to act as case studies. This will allow you to share your story and explain to the media how the policy change would affect people with coeliac disease. To become a case study or to find out more about interview opportunities please call us on 0333 332 2033.

We will provide updates as the situation progresses through direct mailings, Crossed Grain magazine and on our website.