A couple from Northern Ireland have said they believe they have been denied IVF treatment on the NHS due to their sexuality
Lisa Berry and and her fiancee Lynsey Kirkwood, of Lisburn, have been together for three years and both have fertility issues.
But said that when they approached Belfast Health and Social Care Trust for help, they were told by a consultant that due to their relationship status they would not be offered IVF treatment on the NHS.
The trust refused to talk about the couple’s case, but told the Ulster Star: “We are unable to comment on individual cases, however all patients attending the Regional Fertility Centre requesting NHS treatment are assessed and managed in accordance with Department of Health commissioning criteria.
“Factors include the patient’s age and weight and that there must be a medical cause for infertility.”
The loving couple have set up a fundraising page
The couple have said on their Justgiving fundraising page that they feel devastated by the turn of events and need to raise about £6,000 to realise their dream.
Lynsey said: “(We are) beyond devastated and feel totally betrayed by our so called government. Lisa’s health means we have an 18-month window in which to start treatment.
“Having already spent £900 to date and saving every penny we have we simply don’t have the thousands required.
“We now now need to rely on the generosity of friends and communities to help our family to become complete and my beautiful fiancee the chance to live her dream of carrying her baby.”
To donate towards their fund, visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/fightforbabyberry
