5 July 2016

We are aware that Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are currently holding a consultation on their policy on access to gluten-free food on prescription. We are letting you know to make sure you have the chance to respond.

The consultation

Wirral 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, and crackers. However, the CCG is now proposing to restrict or stop prescribing gluten-free foods. The CCG is asking local people to complete a survey on the prescribing of gluten-free food. 

Coeliac UK communication with the CCG

We are extremely concerned by the proposal to stop prescribing gluten-free food 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

We would encourage you to respond to the consultation to ensure your views are heard.  The survey can be accessed online at the link below and is open until 14 August:

www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/D2VNXLY

If you require a printed version of the consultation, please contact Wirral CCG on 0151 651 0011 extension 1928 or by email on wiccg.prescribingpolicies@nhs.net.

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.