The lack of specialist service provision for CFS/ME was recognised by the Government and in 1998 the  Chief Medical Officer (CMO) announced the establishment of a Working Group to consider how the NHS might best provide care for people of all ages who have this syndrome.  The Working Group were asked to commission a report on the management and practice in the field of CFS/ME.

The report was published in January 2002 and has formed the basis on which the new services operate. (until NICE guidance is received in August 2007)

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Patients with CFS/ME may find themselves needing information and help regarding the benefits system and what benefits are available. This link for Directgov provides useful information about  how to find out if you qualify for benefits and how to apply.

This link provides useful information about the Expert Patient Programme and how to locate a programme in your area.

This links to the RCPCH Evidence Based Guideline for the Management of CFS in Children and Young People

The CFS/ME National Collaborative team have produced this paperless on line document web-site to enable the CFS/ME  teams across the country to share and exchange  information with each other regarding the management of CFS/ME patients.   The POD contains useful information on pathways, care protocols etc.,

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is the independent organisation responsible for providing national guidance on the promotion of good health and the prevention and treatment of ill health.

NICE guidance on CFS/ME is currently in draft form with the final version expected in August 2007.