A community group is helping young people living with coeliac disease feel less isolated while offering vital support to their families.
Gaynor Clark and her daughter Isla
Nottingham Young Coeliacs was set up in July 2024 by Gaynor Clark after their daughter was diagnosed with the condition. At the time, Isla did not know anyone else with coeliac disease and found herself feeling isolated and unsure where she belonged. She also faced the ongoing challenge of explaining to others what she could and could not eat, while still learning about the condition herself.
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body cannot tolerate gluten, as it causes damage to the gut and can lead to long-term health problems. Gluten is found in many everyday foods, including bread, pasta and cereals, and appears in forms such as wheat, barley, rye and spelt.
The group was initially created to connect young people across the Nottinghamshire area. However, from the very first meeting it became clear that parents and carers were also benefiting greatly from the shared advice, resources and support. Demand has since extended beyond Nottinghamshire, with families travelling from surrounding counties due to a lack of similar groups nearby.
The group now hosts regular monthly meet-ups in accessible locations such as parks and community spaces, providing a relaxed environment for families to connect.
A gluten free event is set to take place on 19th July 2026 at Oxton Village Hall, tickets and more information will be available soon.
Families of young people with coeliac disease are encouraged to get involved. Nottingham Young Coeliacs can be found on Facebook and Instagram.
