Need for better IBD healthcare services highlighted at Northern Ireland Assembly

It was an excellent opportunity for politicians, gastroenterologists, nurses, healthcare commissioners and people with Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis to come together and identify what needs to be done to meet the IBD Standards.

The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Simon Hamilton MLA, spoke at the reception of his personal experience of living with Crohn's Disease and pledged his ongoing support to people with IBD and to the charity.

Paula Bradley MLA, who sponsored the reception, also spoke of her experience of supporting her husband, who also attended, through his life with his IBD.

Dr Seamus Murphy, a consultant gastroenterologist and Mary Kane, who was the first IBD specialist nurse in Northern Ireland spoke about the role of healthcare professionals and Christopher McCraw described some of the challenges he had faced with his condition and the value for him of access to an IBD specialist nurse and the right drug treatment which has enabled him to successfully pursue his career.

David Barker, Chief Executive of Crohn's & Colitis UK, said he felt the power of partnership between those in the room could really make a difference for people with Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis in Northern Ireland.

The event follows the launch of My Crohn's and Colitis Care which outlines the top 10 essentials of a good IBD service and how you can get more from your care.

For more information read our full press release about this event.