People in North Tyneside are being asked to help start a support group to raise awareness of ME/CFS and provide help and understanding for other people with this over-looked illness. Funds for this new venture have been supplied by the Tyne and Wear Community Foundation.

In North Tyneside it is estimated that 767 people have ME – with 144 being young people below the age of 25.

It is hoped to set up regular support meetings for people with ME, their families and carers. Joy Lynn, Regional Groups Coordinator of ME North East, said “Too often people can feel isolated by their illness and a support group where people can meet and hold open discussions can be of enormous benefit. We are hoping that the initiative will be fully supported by Nick Brown MP and Alan Campbell MP and also by local councillors – all of whom have been invited to the meeting.”

The first meeting will take place in St John’s Methodist Church, Ifracombe Gardens, Whitley Bay between 2.00 – 4.00 pm on Thursday 24 February. Everyone will be welcome.