What is Action for ME and who does it help?

Action for ME is a UK-based charity that provides care and support for everyone affected by ME/CFS, while working to secure future change through research and campaigning. It is relevant to you if you live with ME/CFS, are under 18 and affected by the condition, or are a carer, family member, or friend of someone with ME.

Who Action for ME helps

The organisation describes itself as being there for people with ME and for anyone living with the condition. Its audience breaks down into several groups:

• Adults living with ME/CFS — through support services, healthcare information, and practical guidance.
• Young people aged 18 and under — with dedicated sections on symptoms and energy, friends and relationships, counselling, family support, and education.
• Carers, family, and friends — who can find information and support for their own situation.
• The wider ME community — including people who want to fundraise, volunteer, or campaign.

What Action for ME actually provides

The charity's work falls into three broad areas: support, research, and campaigning.

Support services

Action for ME offers free support services and healthcare services. On its website, the "Supporting you" section covers:

• What ME is
• Pacing and energy management
• Managing symptoms
• Accessing health and social care
• Work and welfare
• Information for carers, family, and friends

There is also an online forum called ME Friends, described as a friendly space to get connected.

Support for under-18s

The "18 and under" area includes guidance on symptoms and energy, friends and relationships, free counselling for young people with ME, family support, and education topics such as going to school, leaving school at 16, and considering university. There is also a Young People's Community and free online events.

Research and campaigning

Action for ME runs research work and campaigns for change. One named project is "Keeping ME Warm." The organisation also invites people to share their story, which feeds into its campaigning and research efforts.

How to get involved or get help

If you want to use Action for ME's services or stay connected, the site offers several entry points:

• Newsletter — sign up to the quarterly newsletter, "Keep me updated."
• Membership — join as a member and receive the InterAction magazine.
• Online forum — get connected through the friendly forums.
• Donate or fundraise — support the charity through donations, fundraising, or leaving a gift in your Will.
• Volunteer — work or volunteer with the organisation.

The site also has a search function and a "Get in touch" page for direct contact.

What to keep in mind

Action for ME is a support and advocacy organisation, not a medical provider. Its healthcare services and support services are described as free, but the website does not specify eligibility criteria or waiting times for every service. If you are looking for clinical treatment or a diagnosis, you would still need to go through your doctor or specialist. Action for ME's role is to help you live with ME, understand your condition, and access the right support — while pushing for broader change through research and campaigning.