Welcome to Dorset ME Support Group
Origins and Early Years:
In 1983, DMESG was established as the Dorset Branch of the national ME Association. It went on to form nine local Link Groups, each led by its own coordinator, to promote social interaction and mutual support among people living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/ME.
Recognising the serious lack of NHS services for ME patients at the time, the Dorset Branch successfully campaigned for the creation of an NHS CFS/ME Clinic at Wareham Hospital. The clinic, officially opened by the Duke of Kent in 1998, was the first NHS-funded ME clinic in the country.
The Dorset Branch contributed £18,000 towards the clinic’s setup and managed its operations for the first three years, with NHS financial backing. When NHS funding ceased, the clinic faced a waiting list of over a year, prompting the NHS to take full responsibility for its ongoing operation.
For the first time, patients with ME were able to receive a formal diagnosis from NHS doctors and access continuing care from an Occupational Therapist.
Formation of DMESG:
In 2001, DMESG members voted to create a separate registered charity—the Dorset ME Support Group.
An Executive Committee of Trustees was formed to administer the group, appointing a Chairman, Treasurer, and Honorary Secretary from within their ranks.
Expanding Services:
To meet the diverse needs of its growing membership, DMESG secured funding:
In 2002, a Self-care Co-ordinator was employed part-time for a three-year contract.
In 2005, a part-time Benefits Advisor was funded through a Lottery grant. Later Midge Mitchell was secured as a full time Benefits Advisor funded by a legacy to the group. Her work was vital in assisting members to obtain benefits due.
Also in 2005, a part-time Child Support Worker worked with the newly created NHS CFS/ME Service in Dorset County and Poole Hospitals, thanks to additional funding. There were Parents and Children's groups in the east and west of the county.
Recognition and Leadership:
Dick Patterson, the first Chairman of DMESG, played a pivotal role in establishing the Wareham Clinic. His dedication led to the award of an MBE for services to people with ME in 2007. Ros Patterson (Dick’s wife ) also did vital work in all the administration for the group.
In 2006, Dick Patterson stepped down as Chairman, becoming the President of DMESG.
10 Years of Wareham Clinic:
In November 2008, a celebratory dinner marked a decade of operation for the Wareham Clinic. Attendees included those instrumental in setting up and running the clinic, as well as specialists providing high-quality CFS/ME services
DMESG continues to support its members with a board of Trustees, a paid Administrator and a full time Self Care Co-ordinator, who is mostly funded by the NHS.