Campaigners from Sussex have arrived at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool this week to demand an end to the “postcode lottery” of osteoporosis care, arguing that universal access to specialist clinics could save hundreds of lives across the region.
The delegation, led by Hove-based volunteer Corinne Turnbull, is lobbying ministers to accelerate the rollout of Fracture Liaison Services (FLS). These proactive “case-finding” clinics are designed to identify patients at risk of future breaks immediately after they suffer a first fracture.
Data suggests that achieving 100 per cent FLS coverage across Surrey and Sussex would prevent 3,610 fractures and save 339 lives.
The cost of late diagnosis
For Corinne Turnbull, the campaign is personal. She was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 39, but only after suffering a pelvic fracture and seven vertebral compression fractures. In total, she broke her back in 10 places before the condition was identified and treated.
“I went from being a healthy 39-year-old to someone who couldn’t walk, couldn’t sit, and couldn’t even lie down without being in agony,” she said.
While fracture care is provided across Sussex, campaigners highlight a significant gap in proactive screening. Only 51 per cent of NHS trusts in England currently provide a full Fracture Liaison Service.
Without these dedicated services, many patients are treated for a broken bone and discharged without the underlying bone density issues being investigated, often leading to a cycle of repeated, more severe injuries.
The 2030 target
The Government has previously committed to ensuring 100 per cent FLS coverage by 2030 as part of its 10-Year Health Plan. However, Sussex campaigners at the Liverpool conference (26-27 September 2026) are calling for more urgent action to address the disparities in care.
The “gold standard” FLS model requires dedicated staff to proactively track every patient over the age of 50 who suffers a break.
The Royal Osteoporosis Society is currently coordinating national efforts to ensure every Integrated Care Board (ICB) in England has a clear timeline for reaching full service coverage.
Advice for Sussex residents
Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent” condition because it frequently has no symptoms until a bone breaks. Under current clinical guidance, residents over the age of 50 who have had a “fragility fracture” (a break resulting from a fall from standing height or less) should be assessed for osteoporosis.
For those concerned about their bone health or the care they have received following a fracture:
- Accessing Scans: If you are over 50 and have had a recent fracture, you can request a bone density (DEXA) scan through your GP if you were not referred automatically by the hospital.
While the Government maintains that universal coverage is a priority for the end of the decade, the Sussex campaigners in Liverpool are clear that for many patients in the region, 2030 will be too late to prevent life-changing injuries.
