Readers of The Independent have expressed anger and concern after news that children in the North West of England could lose access to gluten-free food on prescription. Many described living with coeliac disease as a daily medical necessity, not a lifestyle choice, and criticised health bosses in Cheshire and Merseyside for suggesting families could turn to food banks instead.
One reader said the idea “lacked basic compassion” and pointed out that gluten-free items are unlikely to be stocked at food banks. Others argued that such decisions punish the poor for being ill, with the burden falling disproportionately on families who already struggle to afford higher-cost gluten-free alternatives.
While some readers acknowledged that gluten-free products are now more widely available than 20 years ago, they noted that discount supermarkets often do not stock them, and that fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish can be more expensive in corner shops common in deprived areas. “Many of the poorest families live in areas described as healthy food deserts,” one commenter wrote.
Others shared personal experiences of managing without prescriptions. One parent said their son, diagnosed at age two eight years ago, had never received gluten-free items on prescription, and the costs have grown as he has. Another reader, diagnosed in 2015, saw their prescription phased out over 16 months despite appeals from their gastroenterologist. “Such is life,” they said, but added they would “love to get the bread back”.
Several readers highlighted that coeliac disease can qualify for disability benefits – Disability Living Allowance for children and Personal Independence Payment for adults – to help with additional living costs. “Just something to bear in mind for those who are worrying about prescriptions being removed,” one advised.
