Our journey with chronic asthma began when my child was first diagnosed several years ago. I also suffer from asthma and each month, we are burdened with the cost of essential medications that help breathe easier and stay healthy. These medications are not mere luxuries, but vital necessities for mines and  my child’s well-being.

Asthma affects approximately 5.4 million people in the UK, which includes 1.1 million children. For many families, the cost of asthma medication can feel overwhelming. Currently, medications for chronic conditions like asthma are not included in the NHS exemption list, leaving countless individuals and families to bear the financial burden each month.

This exclusion is particularly distressing for those on low or fixed incomes who cannot afford to pay out-of-pocket for life-saving medications. It can lead to inadequate asthma control, increased hospital visits, and worse health outcomes, which in turn places a heavier strain on NHS resources.

Including asthma medication on the NHS exemption list would alleviate this financial strain on families and ensure equitable access to necessary treatments. Similar adjustments have been made before; for example, prescriptions for diabetes patients are exempt from charges due to the chronic nature of the condition. Asthma, as a chronic respiratory condition, deserves similar consideration.

We urge policymakers to recognize the importance of asthma medication for those who rely on it to maintain their health and quality of life. Including these medications in the exemption list would represent a significant step forward in supporting thousands of families across the UK. Please sign this petition to help us advocate for this critical change.