Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has met with constituent Claire Hirst in Pateley Bridge to discuss the need for improved healthcare provision for people living with severe and very severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME).
During the meeting on Friday 22 May, Mrs Hirst, who has lived with ME for over 26 years, raised serious concerns about the lack of specialist NHS services available to those most severely affected by the condition.
Mrs Hirst highlighted that many individuals with severe ME are bedbound, unable to tolerate light or sound, and in some cases unable to communicate, yet have no access to appropriate specialist care. She also drew attention to delays in the rollout of a dedicated NHS specialist service for very severe ME, which is not expected to be explored further until at least April 2027.
The discussion focused on potential solutions, including the development of specialist NHS services and the introduction of “virtual ward” provision through local Integrated Care Boards, enabling patients to receive care safely in their own homes.
Following the meeting, Julian said, “I am very grateful to Claire for meeting with me and sharing her personal experience and the broader challenges facing those living with severe and very severe ME. It is clear that more work needs to be done to ensure that patients are receiving the specialist care and support they need. I will be raising these concerns with Ministers to ensure that the needs of those affected are properly considered, including the case for improved specialist services and innovative care models such as virtual wards.”
