MP calls for NHS Cumbria to support threatened service for ME sufferers

Tim Farron is backing local people suffering from M.E-otherwise known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome-who could have a valued specialist advice service removed. It has been revealed that National Lottery funding for the Morecambe Bay M.E specialist adviser is due to run out in the summer.

Currently it is estimated that some 250,000 people in Britain are affected by ME. People with M.E find that their income drops as they are often unable to work and therefore access to advice on financial support is crucial.

Mr Farron who is the patron of the M.E Morecambe Bay support group has written to Sue Page, the Chief Executive of NHS Cumbria, to ask for funding to retain the specialist adviser, after Mr Farron was contacted by a local constituent who expressed concern about the possible disappearance of this vital support.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"Current services for those affected by M.E. are woefully inadequate and the provision for those who are more severely affected by the condition is particularly poor.

"People living with M.E need support and advice, especially when it comes to gaining access to benefits. Over the last three years many sufferers from M.E have benefited from this advice, but this service could be lost if the funding is not replaced.

"I'm calling on NHS Cumbria to support this project so that people living with M.E in our area can have access to specialist advice and support."