**Updated 22.07.25 at 3pm to include the link to Delivery Plan on ME/CFS (see the end of the blog)**
The Government has today (22.07.25) published a press release entitled ‘Boost in support for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome or ME' announcing the publication of the Delivery Plan on ME/ CFS
Extracts
Patients living with debilitating conditions are set to receive improved care closer to home, thanks to government plans published today.
The government has committed to changing attitudes and transforming care for patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/ CFS).
The condition affects approximately 390,000 people in the UK, causing debilitating fatigue, sleep problems and difficulties with thinking, concentration and memory. The impact of this condition varies between cases, but severe ME/CFS, which is thought to affect a quarter of those diagnosed, leave patients housebound or unable to work.
The plan published today provides the foundations for significant improvements in all key areas that affect people living with ME/CFS in England, many of whom currently struggle to access appropriate care tailored to their complex condition.
ME/CFS is a debilitating illness that can severely limit patients’ ability to participate in everyday activities, maintain employment, or enjoy family and social life.
Ashley Dalton, Minister for Public Health and Prevention
Today’s plan will help tackle the stigma and lack of awareness of this condition through improved training for NHS staff.
And through our neighbourhood health services, we will ensure patients suffering from the effects of ME/CFS can access quality care, closer to home, as pledged in our 10 Year Health Plan.
Our Plan for Change is transforming how patients experience care and this plan represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the long-standing gaps in care and support for people with these conditions, with patient access to appropriate care at its heart.
MEA Comment
The Delivery plan has been published, however, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has so far failed to provide a link to the actual Plan!
We will provide further information, including the MEA statement and our press release, when there is a plan for people to actually read.
Dr Charles Shepherd,
Trustee and Hon. Medical Adviser to the ME Association,
Member of the 2018-2021 NICE guideline on ME/CFS committee,
Member of the 2002 Chief Medical Officer's Working Group on ME/CFS
Information (updated 22.07.25 at 3pm)
- GOV UK: Policy Paper: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS): the final delivery plan | July 22, 2025
- The ME Association’s statement on the Government’s Delivery Plan on ME/CFS | July 22, 2025