Do you need to avoid gluten to stay healthy?
The NHS in the North East and North Cumbria has launched a six-week public survey asking people to share their thoughts on a proposal to stop prescribing gluten-free bread, rolls and flour mixes in our region.
These are the only gluten-free foods currently available on prescription here. No other gluten-free products are prescribed.
Why is this being looked at?
Some people, like those with coeliac disease and some other health conditions, need to avoid gluten to stay healthy. At the moment, about 4,700 people in our area get gluten-free bread, rolls and flour mix on prescription. That’s around 34,000 items a year.
But things have changed over time:
- Gluten-free foods are now easier to buy in shops and online.
- Food labels are clearer, so it’s easier to pick safe foods.
- Gluten-free foods still cost more than regular food.
- The NHS pays more for these products than the prices in shops.
Different areas prescribe different amounts, and North East & North Cumbria Integrated Care Board wants to make sure NHS money is spent fairly and equally across our region.
What’s happening now?
No decision has been made yet; NENC ICB wants to hear what people think through an online survey and focus groups, especially for people who may be more affected.
Take part in the survey here: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/nencicb/nenc-gluten-free-2025
Other ways to take part in the survey:
• email nencicb.involve@nhs.net
• call 0191 512 8484
• write to Gluten-free survey, North East and North Cumbria ICB, Pemberton House, Colima Avenue, Sunderland Enterprise Park, Sunderland, SR5 3XB.
