Has the timetable for publication of the Delivery Plan for ME/CFS slipped?
It had been the firm intention of government to publish the Plan next month (March) but matters may no longer be so certain.
When answering Baroness Scott of Needham Market’s question (UIN HL4997) on “government plans, if any, to introduce a goal of 100 percent compliance by 2028 with the 2021 NICE guideline on ME/CFS, as part of their delivery plan for ME/CFS”, Baroness Merron responded that whilst the content delivery plan had not yet been finalised the government “… aim to publish by the end of March.” The answer was provided on 27th February 2025.
Yet, in a parliamentary answer the next day, Ashley Dalton MP Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care) used the term “… in the coming months”
“We aim to publish the myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), final delivery plan in the coming months. The content of the ME/CFS delivery plan has not yet been finalised. The responses to the 2023 interim delivery plan consultation, along with continued close engagement with stakeholders, will inform the development of the final ME/CFS delivery plan.”
Which areas are being updated is unknown. On timing – is the government awaiting the 3rd anniversary of the announcement of the initiative which gave rise to the Delivery Plan process for symbolic purposes?
