ME Awareness Week Highlighted in Northern Ireland Assembly – May 2025

A statement in the Northern Ireland Assembly marked the beginning of ME Awareness Week, drawing attention to the challenges faced by those living with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Robbie Butler MLA emphasized the severe impact of ME, describing it as a complex neurological condition that leaves many housebound or bedridden. He noted the lack of specialist ME services in Northern Ireland and called for greater recognition and support.

Key points include:

• ME patients continue to face stigma, disbelief, and inadequate healthcare support.
• There are no specialist services available in Northern Ireland for individuals with ME.
• Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI, a patient advocacy group led by Joan McParland MBE, has worked tirelessly to promote awareness, medical education, and research collaborations.
• The group has hosted international medical conferences, contributed to biomedical research, and partnered with universities to enhance future healthcare training.
• Butler encouraged Assembly Members to attend an awareness event hosted by Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI, reinforcing the importance of recognizing the struggles faced by ME patients.

This statement underscores ongoing efforts to improve understanding, advocacy, and support for those affected by ME in Northern Ireland.