Recently, a grave incident occurred involving my child Ben, who nearly lost his life due to an unfortunate prescription error that resulted in him running out of his prescribed medicinal cannabis THC. This incident highlights the critical need for a safety net that ensures children have uninterrupted free access to their vital medication.

We call on the government to establish an urgent reimbursement scheme that provides free access to medicinal cannabis for children and young adults who require it to treat life-threatening seizures. It is crucial that the government takes immediate action to prevent further harm and potential loss of life.

In 2018, when the law was changed to allow for the prescription of medicinal cannabis by the UK government, three children were granted free access to this life-changing medication. However, it is disheartening to acknowledge that many children, including Ben, have been left without any viable access routes through the NHS.

Many families with children suffering from severe seizure disorders have sought relief through medicinal cannabis treatments obtained from private clinics. However, the exorbitant monthly costs associated with these treatments are placing an unbearable burden on these families, making it increasingly difficult to sustain their children's lives.

It is unacceptable that families are forced to choose between financial ruin or the well-being of their child. No parent should face the impossible decision of  ether to provide their child with life-saving medication or put food on the table. This situation demands immediate attention and action from the government.

Furthermore, it is important to note that these children and young adults are not eligible to enter into planned placebo trials as they are already taking the medication. Once trials start, they could take up to four years to complete. This further emphasizes the urgency of ensuring continued access to medicinal cannabis for those who are already benefiting from it.

We urge the government to establish a reimbursement scheme that covers the costs of medicinal cannabis treatments for children who are already accessing them through private clinics. This scheme should ensure that these children have uninterrupted access to the medication they desperately need, without placing an undue financial burden on their families.

By implementing an urgent reimbursement scheme, the government has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to the well-being and rights of children suffering from severe seizure disorders. It is our collective responsibility to protect the lives of these vulnerable children and support their families in their time of need.

We implore the government to recognize the urgency of this matter and take immediate action to establish a reimbursement scheme that will provide free access to medicinal cannabis for children already accessing such treatments. Together, we can ensure that no child is denied the medication they need to survive due to financial constraints.

Sign this petition today to demand that the government prioritize the well-being and lives of these children by implementing an urgent reimbursement scheme for medicinal cannabis treatments.