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Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week
12 December 2023
Lead MP
Hannah Bardell
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSBenefits & Welfare
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Hannah Bardell raised concerns about crohn’s and colitis awareness week in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The debate was held to raise awareness of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, impacting over 500,000 people in the UK. The MP highlighted personal experiences with her brother's diagnosis at a young age, describing the challenges he faced, including physical limitations on activities like camping trips and difficulty managing daily life due to unpredictable symptoms. She also mentioned constituents affected by the disease, emphasising the need for better diagnostic tools, improved social security systems supporting those living with relapsing conditions, and increased public awareness about the severity of these diseases. The MP emphasised the importance of early diagnosis in improving quality of life and reducing hospitalizations.
Sarah Green
Con
Chesham and Amersham
Emphasised the need for greater awareness and destigmatization of IBD symptoms, encouraging open discussions about incontinence.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with Crohn’s and colitis, particularly regarding access to appropriate toilet facilities and mental health impacts.
Government Response
The Minister thanked Hannah Bardell for securing the debate and praised her efforts in raising awareness of inflammatory bowel disease. He acknowledged the importance of early diagnosis and improving public understanding, highlighting NHS England’s initiatives such as the 'Getting it right first time' gastroenterology programme which aims to reduce emergency admissions by over 6,500 per year. Additionally, he discussed ongoing research funded through the National Institute for Health and Care Research, with more than £1 billion invested annually in health research. The Minister also committed to working closely with DWP Ministers regarding benefits systems that better support those living with Crohn’s and colitis.
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Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.