ME in Parliament: Key Updates from the APPG on ME

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) meeting on ME, held on October 8, 2008, focused on significant issues surrounding welfare reforms, child protection, NHS service provisions, and advocacy for patients with ME/CFS. Here’s a concise overview of the key discussions:

1. Welfare Reform Presentation: Rt Hon James Purnell MP presented the Welfare Reform Green Paper, highlighting changes to Incapacity Benefit (ICB) and the introduction of Employment Support Allowance (ESA). While promising improved benefits for more disabled individuals, concerns about ME/CFS patients losing benefits remained unresolved.
2. Key Discussions with DWP Representatives: Questions revolved around assessing ME/CFS patients, skepticism about the reality of the condition, employer hostility, appeals processes, and revising medical guidance. Although reassuring answers were given, specific solutions for ME/CFS patients were lacking.
3. Other Topics Covered:
   • Child protection updates and mental health legislation implications for ME/CFS patients.
   • Establishment of a new advocacy group for ME patients, spearheaded by The Countess of Mar.
   • A proposed APPG Inquiry into NHS service provisions for ME/CFS, facing criticism for inadequate consultation with ME charities and the need for inclusion of the NICE Judicial Review.

The APPG emphasizes ongoing efforts to advocate for ME/CFS patients, while acknowledging challenges in policy, awareness, and skepticism. The next meeting was scheduled for December 2008.

This summary provides a snapshot of the issues and initiatives raised during the meeting to inform and engage the ME/CFS community.