24 March 2025

Coeliac UK's campaign to end the postcode lottery for gluten free prescriptions has reached a significant milestone, with over 20,000 signatures collected. On Wednesday 19 March, we took the petition directly to 10 Downing Street, presenting our call for action to the UK Government. 

The petition, supported by individuals from across the UK, highlighted the importance of protecting access to gluten free prescriptions for people with coeliac disease, particular those most in need. Among those taking part in the hand-in were supporters with first hand experience of seeing support withdrawn in their areas. Kate Powell, who has two daughters with coeliac disease is from Hampshire & Isle of Wight which removed provision in early 2024 whilst volunteer Ceira Reading saw provision taken away by her local area of Leicestershire earlier this year. 

The clinical case for gluten free prescriptions was made by health care professionals including GP and Coeliac UK trustee, Dr Anita Patel and Dr. Hugo Penny, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. Coeliac UK ambassador Becky Excell was also present, adding her voice to the campaign 

We were delighted to be joined on the famous steps by supportive politicians including the Baroness Bakewell of Hardington Mandeville, Tom Rutland MP, Sharon Hodgson MP, and Amanda Hack MP, who joined the call for equal access to gluten free prescriptions. 

While we have made tremendous progress, the campaign continues. We will keep you updated as we work with Government officials to drive much needed change. 

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Thank you for your continued support.