In the past we have run specific projects to support members in certain ways such as a Handyperson Project, a benefits support project and a Parents Group. We are currently finding though that it is better to be reactive to member needs so we encourage you to reach out if you have any issues and if we have the right combination of time, knowledge and expertise we will help.
We still run a help-line (details below) and we may well run more specific projects in the future. We also hope to collate some useful information and member experiences on a range of issues such as aides and adaptions, benefits etc. and these will be added to the website over the next few weeks and months. We also recommend people join our Facebook group as this is an excellent place to ask questions and tap into the experience of many of our members.
We also have a small selection of books and other resources that can be lent out including:-
Gupta resources
Wheelchairs
SAD Light Boxes
Stockport ME Group Information Line
0345 519 4116
Or email smeg2244@yahoo.co.uk
This is a 24 hour voicemail service. A volunteer will respond to messages left within the next 2 working days. Please be aware that this is a voicemail / email service only, and that while volunteers regularly check for messages, no volunteer is able to answer a telephone call there and then. Please do leave a message and include your contact details.
Alternatively feel free to reach out to a specific committee member who you feel might be able to provide you with the right information, advice or support to you. Please understand that if you reach out to a specific committee member they may be slower in replying and may pass your enquiry onto a different committee member if they either need assistance or are short of time/energy at the time.
This service is available to both members and non-members although we will be more willing to go the extra mile for members and might in some instances be able to provide support, guidance and advocacy in addition to information.
Benefits
Anyone with ME/CFS may be entitled to some benefits. These will depend on the severity of ME/CFS and how it impacts your life. It will also depend on other factors such as whether you are working or not, what your age is and what savings you have.
Some benefits that you might be eligible to include Personal Independence Payments, Employment and Support Allowance, Tax Credits, Universal Credit and Attendance Allowance. There are a range of additional benefits that may or not be applicable such as winter fuel allowance, disabled persons bus passes, blue badges etc. Some of our members also receive care budgets to meet their care, support and independence needs.
We can give our members excellent professional guides, highlight benefits you might be entitled to and signpost you to professionals, community groups and organisations that could help you secure benefits you may be entitled to. We recommend people apply for benefits such as ESA, PIP or Universal Credit because of their ME/CFS make sure they receive the right help. The benefit system is not fair and a good application and if needed support in an assessment can make a huge difference.