Make asthma medication free of charge in the UK
The Issue
Growing up in the UK with asthma has been a challenging journey for me, as it is for many others who suffer from this chronic condition. Asthma has been an ever-present part of my life since birth, dictating when I can exercise, where I can go, and even affecting what I can do during certain seasons. Yet, despite the profound impact that asthma has on our daily lives, we're faced with an additional burden: the financial cost of our medication.
Unlike conditions such as diabetes and thyroid issues, where the NHS offers free prescriptions to patients, asthma sufferers in the UK are required to pay for their vital medicines. This policy feels grossly unfair and places an unnecessary strain on individuals who rely on inhalers and other treatments to breathe and function normally.
According to Asthma UK's 2019 report, there are around 5.4 million asthmatics in the UK, and many are forced to choose between their living expenses and life-saving medication. This should not be the case in a system as robust as the NHS.
The cost of prescriptions in England currently sits at £9.35 per item, and for people who need multiple medications a month, this can quickly become a significant financial burden. In contrast, in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, most prescriptions are free, highlighting the disparity within the UK itself. If a health condition like asthma—which affects a person's fundamental ability to breathe—cannot qualify for free prescriptions, what message does that send about the NHS's commitment to equitable health care?
The Royal College of Physicians reported that three people die from asthma attacks every day in the UK. Knowing this, it’s imperative we remove all barriers to accessing the medications that can prevent these tragedies. Free prescriptions for essential asthma treatments would not only alleviate financial stress for millions but potentially save lives.
We urgently call on the UK government to re-evaluate their prescription charge policy. Providing free medication to asthma sufferers will demonstrate a commitment to fairness and compassion in healthcare. Join us in this fight for a just healthcare system that prioritises patient well-being over arbitrary cost distinctions.
Sign this petition today to make asthma medication free of charge in the UK. Together, we can stand up for our rights to breathe easily without financial strain.
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The Issue
Growing up in the UK with asthma has been a challenging journey for me, as it is for many others who suffer from this chronic condition. Asthma has been an ever-present part of my life since birth, dictating when I can exercise, where I can go, and even affecting what I can do during certain seasons. Yet, despite the profound impact that asthma has on our daily lives, we're faced with an additional burden: the financial cost of our medication.
Unlike conditions such as diabetes and thyroid issues, where the NHS offers free prescriptions to patients, asthma sufferers in the UK are required to pay for their vital medicines. This policy feels grossly unfair and places an unnecessary strain on individuals who rely on inhalers and other treatments to breathe and function normally.
According to Asthma UK's 2019 report, there are around 5.4 million asthmatics in the UK, and many are forced to choose between their living expenses and life-saving medication. This should not be the case in a system as robust as the NHS.
The cost of prescriptions in England currently sits at £9.35 per item, and for people who need multiple medications a month, this can quickly become a significant financial burden. In contrast, in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, most prescriptions are free, highlighting the disparity within the UK itself. If a health condition like asthma—which affects a person's fundamental ability to breathe—cannot qualify for free prescriptions, what message does that send about the NHS's commitment to equitable health care?
The Royal College of Physicians reported that three people die from asthma attacks every day in the UK. Knowing this, it’s imperative we remove all barriers to accessing the medications that can prevent these tragedies. Free prescriptions for essential asthma treatments would not only alleviate financial stress for millions but potentially save lives.
We urgently call on the UK government to re-evaluate their prescription charge policy. Providing free medication to asthma sufferers will demonstrate a commitment to fairness and compassion in healthcare. Join us in this fight for a just healthcare system that prioritises patient well-being over arbitrary cost distinctions.
Sign this petition today to make asthma medication free of charge in the UK. Together, we can stand up for our rights to breathe easily without financial strain.
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Petition created on 28 September 2026