16 December 2016

We’ve become aware that NHS Croydon Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is reviewing their policy on access to gluten-free food on prescription. We have contacted affected Members directly and are spreading the word online to ensure that you have the chance to make your voice heard.

The CCG currently prescribes gluten-free staple foods, but is now reviewing their policy and 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 to support the continuation of access to gluten-free food on prescription. In our arguments we will focus on the importance of gluten-free staples on prescription to help people manage and stick to their gluten-free diets in view of cost and availability issues. Research shows that gluten-free staples are 3-4 times more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts, and not easily available in budget supermarkets and convenience stores. We’ll also be asking local healthcare professionals for their support.

Have your say

A meeting with the CCG has been organised by the Coeliac UK Croydon Local Voluntary Support Group. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Jacqui Smith, the Croydon Local Voluntary Support Group Organiser, for all her hard work to make this happen.

This meeting will be an opportunity for you to voice your opinions on gluten-free prescribing and we would encourage you to attend to make your voice heard. Norma McGough, Director of Policy, Research and Campaigns will be attending the meeting to represent Coeliac UK.

The meeting is being held on Wednesday 11 January 2017 from 7.30pm until 9.30pm at Purley United Reformed Church, 906 Brighton Road, Purley, CR8 2LN. If you would like to attend the meeting, or if you are unable to attend but would like to share any concerns you have, please contact Jacqui Smith at croydon@coeliac.org.uk.

A consultation is also open until 6 January and we would encourage you to respond and make sure your voice is heard. The survey can be accessed online at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ZNHJWPP

If you would like to request a hard copy of the consultation document you can do so by calling the CCG (020 3668 1384) or emailing getinvolved@croydonccg.nhs.uk.

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

Share your story

As part of our work in opposing prescription cuts, we’re looking for people affected to act as case studies. This will allow us to show the media how the policy changes 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.