We call upon the UK Government to mandate that all dining establishments provide substantial gluten-free options for individuals with coeliac disease. Coeliac disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition affecting 1 in 100 people in the UK, requiring a strict gluten-free diet to prevent serious health complications. The absence of gluten-free choices in restaurants excludes those with this condition from participating fully in social and public life. This constitutes indirect discrimination under the Equality Act 2010, as coeliac disease can qualify as a disability when it substantially limits everyday activities like dining out.

Just as religious or philosophical beliefs, such as veganism, are protected under the Act and accommodated through diverse menu options, the same principle should apply to those requiring gluten-free diets for medical reasons. Ensuring that dining establishments offer safe, gluten-free meals is a matter of fairness, social inclusion, and legal compliance. We urge the government to work with food service providers to standardize gluten-free offerings, ensuring all individuals, regardless of medical needs, can enjoy equal access to dining experiences.

My own journey with my daughter, who is both coeliac and a type one diabetic, inspired this petition. After numerous frustrating experiences, it's clear that finding substantial gluten-free options when dining out, especially for a whole day, is more of a challenge than it should be. From cafés and food vans to fast food chains and restaurants, the lack of substantial gluten-free items is majorly disappointing. Sadly, it's not a matter of choice for those with coeliac disease but a necessity for their health.

It is worth noting that while most food establishments offer an array of vegetarian or vegan options (which are mostly lifestyle choices, I appreciate not all are), they fall short when it comes to catering to those with dietary restrictions out of medical necessity. The absence of basic accommodations, such as gluten-free sandwiches in children's menus, puts an unequal burden on people with coeliac disease. We can't just pop into Greggs for a sausage roll or to McDonalds for a burger (unless you are in Spain where they do offer gluten free burger buns!)

The Celiac Disease Foundation reports that an estimated 1 in 100 globally are affected by this condition. That said, this isn't about catering to a small minority; it's about inclusivity and respecting the dietary needs of all patrons, large or small. What's more, not allowing outside food in these establishments only amplifies the problem. My daughter, like others with coeliac, shouldn't have to miss out because the food industry isn't accommodating her dietary needs.

• Coeliac disease is a lifelong autoimmune disease caused by a reaction to gluten.
• 1 in 100 people have coeliac disease.
• Coeliac disease symptoms include diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting, stomach cramps, mouth ulcers, fatigue and anaemia.
• In undiagnosed, untreated coeliac disease there is a greater risk of complications including anaemia, osteoporosis, neurological conditions such as gluten ataxia and neuropathy, and although rare there's an increased risk of small bowel cancer and intestinal lymphoma.
• Once diagnosed, coeliac disease is treated by following a gluten free diet for life.

It's time we all stood up and demanded change. Support this petition to require all food establishments to offer substantial gluten-free options. Let's bring down this unnecessary hurdle and pave the way for accessible and inclusive dining for all. Please sign this petition today. Help to make a difference in the lives of those living with coeliac disease.