Local Multi Disciplinary Teams in the North of Tyne (Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland) and Co Durham & Darlington were the first two localities to be awarded funds from The Department of Health to develop clinical services for ME in our region.

A meeting was held following our AGM on the 7th May to discuss progress and hear from lead clinicians of the two teams together with a presentation from the Clinical Network Coordinator with an overview of the regional picture. Much of the discussion on the day we have covered in our regular clinic updates (the next one will be posted on the website in July and will appear in Autumn Focus). What was most important was the opportunity for individuals to question directly those charged with getting services up and running. Whilst we recognise that limited funding will restrict the numbers of people who will benefit in the early days, members made it very clear that the services must deliver what was outlined in the original bids, including addressing the needs of Children and Young People (and transitional services), and the needs of the severely affected, housebound people with ME who are unable to attend clinics.

A big issue around the requirement for a medical diagnosis and the care pathway of people presenting for services raised concern from members and a strong reaction that therapy services may well be able to assess the needs of the individual for treatment, but as therapists they are not qualified to make a medical diagnosis.

All of the concerns and questions raised will be taken back to the Steering Group Meetings as planning and implementing of the clinics progress. Therapist posts are in the process of recruitment and early training needs will be a top priority within all the teams.

The South of Tyne (Sunderland, South Tyneside and Gateshead) Steering Group met on the 20th May and had a very productive and helpful discussion with key needs addressed. These will be presented at a consultation event at the Sunderland & South Tyneside Group Meeting on Wednesday 20th July, followed by a full Stakeholder meeting to be held in September. (for more information ring 0191 4556959).

As we know the bid for services in Teesside and Easington was not successful, and the five Primary Care Trusts did not receive any extra funds in their localities. Discussions are taking place at a regional level to determine how to meet the needs of patients in these areas.

ME North East working with ME Support in Cleveland and the Middlesborough Primary Care Trust hosted an educational training event on the needs of ME, and to discuss the problems of not having a dedicated service. Around 20 people attended including Consultants, GP’s and therapy staff. Two PCT Commissioners were also present. The event was chaired by Professor Peter Kelly (Director of Public Health) and speakers included Dr Nigel Speight (Consultant Paediatrician) Dr Amanda Gash (Liaison Psychiatrist), Louise Wilson (CFS/ME Clinical Coordinator) and Philip Burns (Trustee of ME North East and a person with ME).
The evening was very interesting and discussion was lively. Many attendees felt they had learned more about ME. Rather disappointingly nothing further has developed from the meeting. We remain in touch with the PCT and continue to press for further talks to get ME on their Agenda.