A House of Lords debate on the treatment of, and research into, severe myalgic encephalomyelitis will take place on Thursday 18 June 2026.
The debate has been secured by Baroness Scott of Needham Market, following close work with Action for ME. We are delighted to have supported Baroness Scott in bringing this important issue to Parliament and welcome the opportunity for the urgent needs of people with severe and very severe ME to be discussed at this level.
1 in 4 people with ME are severely affected, unable to leave the house or their bed, with symptoms having a devastating impact on their lives. Despite this, many still face a lack of understanding, limited specialist support and significant barriers to appropriate health and social care.
This debate is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the reality of severe ME, the urgent need for better care and support, and the importance of biomedical research to improve understanding, diagnosis and treatment.
Action for ME will be developing and sharing a briefing for all attendees ahead of the debate, setting out key issues and recommendations. We will also be attending the debate and will continue to work with parliamentarians to ensure the voices and experiences of people with ME are heard.
We are grateful to Baroness Scott for her commitment to people affected by ME and for helping to bring this vital issue to Parliament.
