8 September 2016

We are aware that Stoke on Trent Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and North Staffordshire CCG are currently holding a joint consultation on their policy on access to gluten-free food on prescription.

The consultation

Stoke on Trent CCG and North Staffordshire CCG currently follow National Prescribing Guidelines on amounts and prescribe up to 18 units (depending on age and gender) of gluten-free bread, pasta, flour, pizza bases and crackers. However, the CCG is now reviewing the policy on gluten-free prescribing and is asking for feedback on three options:

1. Continue with current supply of gluten-free food
2. Limit availability of gluten-free food on prescription
3. Withdraw access to gluten-free food on prescription

Coeliac UK communication with the CCG

We are extremely concerned by the proposal and will be submitting a formal response to the consultation in support of continuing access to gluten-free food on prescription. Our arguments will focus on the importance of gluten-free staples on prescription to support management and adherence to the gluten-free diet in view of cost and availability issues. Research shows that gluten-free staple foods are not readily available to purchase in budget supermarkets and convenience stores and that gluten-free staple foods are 3-4 times more expensive than gluten containing equivalents. We will also be asking local healthcare professionals for their support.

Have your say

The consultation is open until 12 noon on 30 September and we would encourage you to respond to the consultation to make sure your voice is heard. The survey can be accessed online at:

www.elesurvey.co.uk/f/614103/1de8/

If you are unable to complete the survey online, you can request a paper copy of the survey by calling the Communications team at the CCG on 0300 404 2999 or by emailing.

We will provide updates as the situation progresses through direct mailings, Crossed Grain magazine and on our website. For more information about getting involved with our prescriptions campaign, visit our prescriptions campaign page.