The ME/CFS Society of NSW Inc.

ME/CFS and FM support groups operate throughout NSW as independent entities. They offer grass-roots assistance in locations the Society could not otherwise reach, with greater emphasis upon repetitive social interaction than the Society can provide. Groups receive an annual Letter of Sanction that defines a common code of conduct and extends the Society's insurance to cover both regular and casual attendees. Non-affiliated support groups may operate without such protection.

The Society actively encourages the 'hatching' of new groups throughout the State by providing start-up kits, training, on-going guidance and logistical support. If you would like to start a group in your local area or region, please contact the Society for an information pack.

There are, or have been, support groups in the locations listed below. For more information, please phone the Society Office or click on one of the links below:

• Albury-Wodonga
• Coffs Harbour
• Dubbo
• Eastern Suburbs
• Laurieton ME/CFS and FM Support Group
• Newcastle
• Northern Beaches
• Northern Tablelands CFS Support Network
• Port Macquarie
• Sutherland
• Tweed Coast
• Upper North Shore (18-30)
• Wollongong ME/CFS/FM Support Group

Some groups have operated for many years while others are relatively new. All exist, however, due to the energy and dedication of special individuals.
ALL support group leaders are hosting these groups on a volunteer basis. Many of them have ME/CFS themselves and often have families and jobs.

Also, unless the call relates directly with the group activites or its locale, please direct all general enquiries to the main office on 02 9904 8433.
The office is staffed 5 days a week from 9-5 and there is an answering machine all set up to take your calls at any hour, day or night. Our staff will return your calls ASAP.

The focus on support groups increased in late 2002-3. Letters of Sanction, a system recognised by the Charities Investigation Branch and incorporated within the Society's new constitution, were introduced. In August 2003, the Society hosted a support group forum in Sydney attended by up to two coordinators from nine groups throughout New South Wales including Central Coast, Cowra, Eurobodalla, Port Macquarie, Wollongong and Sydney districts. The coordinators travelled long distances to Sydney, often in poor health, to make this forum a successful interchange of ideas and experience.

Other new or revived groups are being established in NSW. The total number of support groups fluctuates according to the personal energy and success of members and co-ordinators, most of whom have ME/CFS but work as hard as they can to assist others.