“Although avoiding gluten seems very difficult at this point, you should know that Coeliac UK are here to help, and that gluten free food availability and coeliac disease awareness are only improving over time. Don’t feel embarrassed or awkward to ask for gluten free food or to explain why whoever is making the food needs to be really careful. This is a fairly serious medical condition, so speak up and protect your health. I wish you the very best of luck.”

“I love having the opportunity to engage with other Coeliac UK people as you get to share a lot of relatable experiences that no one else really fully understands. I also think I’ve learnt a lot in the past 4 years since my diagnosis and would love to be able to share that with other young people so maybe their diagnosis journey can be a bit easier.”

“I wanted to get involved with the Teen Virtual Club because I would have loved something like this when I was first diagnosed, and if mentoring the club can help anyone else feel a little less isolated and overwhelmed, then it’s a wonderful thing to take part in. Sharing advice, anecdotes and information is incredibly important, and I think it helps everyone know that they’re not alone in all of this. I know I’ve certainly felt the benefits of having this community! Plus, the club is just a lot of fun!”

“I wanted to volunteer for the Coeliac UK as I have been a member for as long as I can remember and I want to help teens who might be struggling with their diagnosis with any potential help I can give.”