WILTSHIRE Council is calling for a review of fertility treatment provision across the county, arguing residents should have fairer access to NHS-funded IVF in line with national guidance.

The move follows a motion agreed unanimously at a full council meeting in May, which has now prompted a formal letter from Wiltshire Council to the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB).

At the heart of the debate is concern that people struggling to conceive may not be receiving the same level of treatment available elsewhere in the country, with councillors urging the NHS to consider increasing access to up to three funded IVF cycles for eligible patients under 40 – in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.

In a letter sent to the chair and chief executive of the BSW ICB, Wiltshire Council said residents “deserve equitable access to fertility treatment” and called for local policies to be reviewed.

The council has formally requested that the ICB reassess its assisted conception policy and, “where resources allow”, work towards aligning provision with NICE recommendations.

Wiltshire leaders are also seeking clarity on any planned reviews, expected timescales and the financial barriers preventing changes to current services.

Wiltshire Council cabinet Member for adult social care, public health and working with the NHS Cllr Clare Cape.

Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and working with the NHS Cllr Clare Cape said the authority wanted to see progress on what can be an emotional and life-changing issue for families.

The letter acknowledges that the BSW, Somerset and Dorset ICB is already reviewing clinical policies – including IVF provision – to create greater consistency across the region.

Wiltshire Council said it is prepared to support the work, with the authority’s leader authorised to explore a joint approach with neighbouring councils.

Officers will also contribute evidence of local need to help shape future consultations and equality impact assessments.

The issue has additionally been referred to overview and scrutiny committees to monitor developments and maintain pressure for change.