A Cumbrian researcher is launching a pioneering study into coeliac disease and the support available after diagnosis.

Philippa Laskey, from Maryport, is a research and teaching assistant in applied psychology at the University of Cumbria, based in Carlisle.

She is also among the growing number of people diagnosed with coeliac disease - an autoimmune condition triggered by a reaction to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye.

Once diagnosed, sufferers must follow a strict gluten free diet for life. Even eating the slightest amount of gluten can trigger a severe reaction, causing damage to the small intestine.

Philippa is now looking for other coeliacs living in the local area who would be willing to be interviewed as part of the study. Latest figures suggest one in 100 people are affected by coeliac disease, yet there is no current screening programme in the UK. Symptoms can include bloating, tiredness, sudden weight loss, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and anaemia.

Philippa decided to launch the research project to identify what support is available to those living with the disease. "After I was diagnosed, and because I have access to a lot of research articles at work, I decided to look at the subject. There's a lot of medical based research and clinical trials but it could take a long time to find a cure, so I felt it was also important to look at whether people are being supported enough," she explained.

"I'm asking people what support they get from health professionals but also family, friends and staff when it comes to eating out."

Philippa's research is conducted through one-to-one interviews. She launched the project just before Christmas but needs more volunteers to come forward to get a broad research base.

She is particularly keen to speak to men with the condition.

"I'm hoping to build a picture of the support already out there and areas where it could be improved locally. It might be that it is brilliant, but if not we can highlight those gaps," added Philippa.

She is keen to find out whether all coeliacs are offered the same NHS support, such as regular bone scans, flu jabs and food on prescription, and also whether coeliacs regularly dine out or eat at friends' houses or avoid social situations because don't have the confidence in food being free from gluten and cross contamination.

Participants must be over 18. To find out more email philippa.laskey@cumbria.ac.uk .