Supporting people with ME/CFS in work, education and training

1.9 Supporting people with ME/CFS in work, education and training

1.9.1 Offer to liaise on the person's behalf (with their informed consent) with:

• employers, education providers and support services.

• Give them information about ME/CFS and discuss the person's care and support plan and any adjustments needed.

1.9.2 Advise and discuss with people with ME/CFS that:

• they may be able to access reasonable adjustments or adaptations (in line with the Equality Act 2010) to help them continue or return to work or education
• there may be times when they are unable to continue with work or education
• some people find that going back to work, school or college worsens their symptoms.

1.9.3 Health and social care professionals should follow the Department for Education's guidance on supporting pupils at school with medical conditions or equivalent statutory guidance.

1.9.4 Health and social care professionals should work with training and education services to:

• provide information about ME/CFS and the needs and impairments of children and young people with ME/CFS, including the need for a balance of activities in their life
• discuss the child or young person's care and support plan so that everyone has a common understanding of their priorities, hopes and plans
• discuss a flexible approach to training and education – this could include adjustments to the school day, online learning or education at home and using assistive equipment.

1.9.5 Give parents and carers information about education, health and care (EHC) plans and how to request one from their local authority.

1.9.6 Advise children and young people with ME/CFS and their parents or carers (as appropriate) that:

• training or education should not be the only activity they undertake
• they should aim to find a balance between the time they spend on education or training, home and family life, and social activities.