Advocacy and Support for the severely affected with ME/CFS

Update from Lisa

My first few weeks were spent mostly in the office, researching, reading and collating information. I have spent lots of time with Jennifer and Sheila and have made some joint visits with both that have been really helpful. Like a sponge I have soaked up masses of detail, a steep learning curve but well worth the time and effort.

I am developing a network of contacts with other voluntary organisations across the region: carer groups, age concern, red cross, and CAB’s to name a few. We are now exchanging information on the services we can offer, and already have received a number of referrals as a result of this joint support.

I have produced information leaflets on the advocacy and support I can now offer and these are being circulated widely, and I will be including my project on this website in the near future. Leaflets and posters will be sent to every GP Practice across the region.

I have made a number of home visits and as a result have been able to access and link individuals to a range of additional services. I have attended a small number of hospital and clinic appointments (at the request of the patients), and this has proven very beneficial. Meeting the clinicians and therapists is also very important for my role.

I have had a great response to my request for volunteers to be a ‘telephone buddy’. I’m currently looking at training needs and hopefully this service will be up and running in the very near future. For some people this important contact will be a link to the outside world and I’m sure it will make a huge difference, thank you so much for all of your support.

The last six months have flown by for me, I am thoroughly enjoying my work and look forward to getting to know many more of you in the near future.

If you feel I could be of any help or support to you please don’t hesitate to call me on 0191 3891841, alternatively you can email me at .

Take care for now
Lisa