ME/CFS Questions and Answers – July 2025

This summary presents key developments from UK parliamentary discussions in July 2025 concerning Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), including the publication of the Government’s final delivery plan.

📢 Final Delivery Plan Published

• On 22 July 2025, the UK Government released its final delivery plan for ME/CFS.
• The plan aims to:
  • Boost biomedical research
  • Improve public and professional attitudes
  • Enhance care, support, and quality of life for people with ME/CFS
• It addresses the needs of approximately 390,000 people in the UK affected by ME/CFS.

🔬 Research and Funding

• A new NIHR Application Development Award will support research into repurposed pharmaceutical treatments for post-acute infection syndromes, including ME/CFS.
• Between 2019/20 and 2023/24:
  • £3.7 million was committed by NIHR
  • £2.9 million by MRC for ME/CFS research
• A showcase event is planned to stimulate further research in ME/CFS and long COVID.

📚 Education and Awareness

• NHS England launched an e-learning programme for healthcare professionals, with promotion to medical schools.
• ME/CFS is now included in the General Medical Council’s national exam content map.
• The plan commits to improving awareness among public sector professionals and the general public.

🏥 Health and Social Care Improvements

• The plan supports:
  • Better diagnosis and treatment
  • Improved access to health and social care services
  • Support for children in education and adults in employment
• Aligns with the 10-Year Health Plan, focusing on community-based care and prevention.

📍 Local Focus: Wiltshire

• NHS England completed a stocktake of ME/CFS services, revealing variation in care and data gaps.
• Specific efforts are underway to support GPs in Wiltshire through training and service improvements.

💷 Welfare and Universal Credit

• The Universal Credit Bill does not change eligibility for young people under 22 with ME/CFS.
• Consultation responses are under review, with outcomes to be published in a white paper in autumn.

🧩 Monitoring and Collaboration

• The Government will monitor delivery plan progress through project management and stakeholder reporting.
• Collaboration with devolved governments is ongoing to address policy implications across the UK.