That the Parliament marks International ME Awareness Day 2025 on 12 May and commends ME Research UK on the occasion of 25 years since its foundation; notes that the charity is dedicated to commissioning and funding biomedical research into the causes, consequences and treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/ CFS); believes that the disease, which affects at least 20,000 people in Scotland, is often misunderstood, mis-diagnosed and under-diagnosed, and is grievously under-researched; understands that the Perth-based charity has invested over £4.5 million in research with 68 research projects globally, four PhD-level projects and a Fellowship; further understands that, in terms of projects, the Perth-based charity is the largest funder of ME/ CFS outwith North America, that it presently funds projects in Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, USA and the UK, and is funded entirely by individual donations, and extends its thanks for the work of ME Research UK in informing, influencing and investing in ME research globally.
Liz Smith, Mid Scotland and Fife,
Date lodged: Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Motion reference: S6M-17226
To raise awareness of ME among politicians at Holyrood ahead of International ME Awareness Day, Liz Smith MSP (who represents ME Research UK’s Perth base as regional list MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife), has lodged a Motion at the Scottish Parliament. The Motion also marks ME Research UK’s 25th anniversary by highlighting our work in the past quarter century.
Most Motions submitted by MSPs raise awareness of an issue or recognise a group, business or individual with other non-Cabinet MSPs able to endorse to show their agreement and support and although of no legislative effect the Motion remains on Parliament’s website. Of the 129 MSPs only 104 are able to support such Motions.
