MP's plea: Crohn's sufferers deserve more aid

Demand for upgrade to benefits

- ANDREW QUINN

AN SNP MP has called for better UK Government support for sufferers of debilitating Crohn's and colitis.

Livingston MP Hannah Bardell wants to change the way those who have the illnesses qualify for benefits as the current system does not take account of long-term but fluctuating diseases.

Crohn's and colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases which affect more than half a million people across the UK. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and fever.

Bardell said the UK Government could do more to help people suffering from these lifelong conditions.