The Guardian is investigating the impact of ongoing NHS medication shortages across the UK. We invite patients, carers, and healthcare professionals to share their experiences of not being able to access prescribed medicines.
How Shortages Affect Patients
Reports indicate that shortages of common drugs, including antibiotics, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy, have become increasingly frequent. Patients have faced delays in treatment, been forced to switch medications, or gone without essential supplies.
According to the British Generic Manufacturers Association, the number of medicine supply issues reported to the Department of Health and Social Care rose by over 50% in the past year. The problem is attributed to global supply chain disruptions, manufacturing issues, and rising demand.
We Want to Hear Your Story
If you or a family member has struggled to obtain a prescribed medicine, please get in touch. Tell us which medication was affected, how the shortage impacted your health, and what alternative arrangements were made. Healthcare professionals can also share insights into how they manage shortages.
Your responses will help us understand the real-world consequences of supply problems and inform our reporting on the crisis. We will treat all submissions confidentially and will not publish names without permission.
How to Share
You can fill in our secure online form or email us at nhsshortages@theguardian.com. Please include a contact number if you are willing to be interviewed. We are particularly interested in cases where shortages led to hospital admissions, deterioration of chronic conditions, or significant distress.
The Guardian is committed to holding power to account. By sharing your experience, you can help highlight a critical issue affecting millions of NHS patients.
