How our service can help you
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is a long-term, complex condition that affects multiple body systems. While the exact cause is not fully understood, research suggests involvement of the nervous system, immune system, and hormonal (neuroendocrine) systems.
Common symptoms
ME/CFS affects everyone differently, but commonly includes:
- Persistent, severe fatigue.
- Post-exertional malaise (PEM) – worsening of symptoms after activity.
- Sleep disturbance.
- Cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”), such as problems with memory, concentration, or word-finding.
- Symptoms often fluctuate and can be unpredictable, varying in severity over time.
Our service
All referrals are reviewed by our specialist team. If appropriate, you will be offered an initial assessment to understand your symptoms and confirm diagnosis where possible.
We provide person-centred support to help you manage your condition, including:
- Understanding ME/CFS and its symptoms.
- Energy management (pacing).
- Activity and daily routine planning.
- Sleep support.
- Relaxation and stress management.
- Emotional wellbeing support.
Support is delivered through a combination of:
- Therapy sessions.
- Education and self-management guidance.
- Written resources.
Why we offer virtual appointments
Many of our appointments are offered by phone or video as this is often the most appropriate way to deliver care for people with ME/CFS.
Virtual appointments can:
- Reduce physical and cognitive effort.
- Lower the risk of symptom flare-ups (PEM).
- Support pacing and energy conservation.
- Offer greater flexibility around your energy levels.
- Allow you to remain in a comfortable, familiar environment.
Our aim is to provide care in a way that supports your health, rather than worsening symptoms. We offer face-to-face appointments only when clinically necessary, ensuring care is tailored to individual needs while minimising unnecessary exertion.
Our team
Our service is delivered by a team of experienced clinicians with specialist knowledge in ME/CFS and fatigue management. We:
- Work collaboratively with you and your family or carers.
- Provide advice and support to other healthcare professionals.
- Stay up to date with the latest research and best practice.
- Work closely with other ME/CFS services across the region.
Important information
Emergencies
- The ME/CFS service is not an emergency or crisis service.
- For urgent medical concerns, contact your GP, NHS 111, or 999.
- For a mental health crisis, call NHS 111 and select option 2 (First Response Service or The Sanctuary).
Contact the service
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Neurological Conditions
CPFT
2 Phorpres Close,
Cygnet Park, Hampton.
Peterborough, PE7 8FZT: 0330 726 0077
- Team Email 2: AdultMECFSTeam@cpft.nhs.uk
- Business Hours/Visiting Hours: Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays: Admin Hub 8am-5pm; Therapy 8.30am-4.30pm
Referral Information
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The service accepts referrals for adults who are registered with a GP in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. GPs in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough can refer adult patients using the referral form below.
ME CFS Referral Form May 2023.docx 448KB
Please send referrals to AdultMECFSTeam@cpft.nhs.uk
Where to park and are there parking charges?
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To support patients with chronic fatigue, all appointments are offered virtually (via video link or telephone). We offer face-to-face appointments for patients only when clinically necessary.
Is there access and support for patients and visitors with a disability?
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There are a variety of clinic venues which are NHS facilities (hospital and GP surgeries). Generally, there is access for disabilities, although this may not always be the case. Please contact the admin team to discuss on a case-by-case basis.
How to cancel your appointment
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Please call the admin team on 0330 726 0077 or send an e-mail to AdultMECFSTeam@cpft.nhs.uk to cancel or rearrange your appointment.
Other essential information
- Action for ME: https://www.actionforme.org.uk ME Association: https://www.meassociation.org.uk
Carers Information
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A carer is anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction and cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid.
At Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, we value the often life-long support carers provide and recognise them as equal care partners. We want to offer as much guidance and reassurance as possible, to help you in your caring role. You can find general information and support for adult carers, young carers and parent carers by following this link.