They may even know someone who is so badly affected by the illness that they have lost their job and have to live on benefits.

Believe me, for them this is not a career choice.

Without exception, people with ME are desperate to get well and live normal lives.

The benefits shake-up recently proposed by the government has serious and far reaching implications for vulnerable people such as those affected by this chronic fluctuating illness.

It promises fairness for disabled people in what is a barely-disguised attempt to cut the benefits bill by forcing people back into work before they are well enough.

What next – will we be expected to send our old and sick to the workhouse?

Action for ME is urging everyone with ME and their carers to take part in the public consultation on the proposals, by completing the survey on our website, www.afme.org.uk

The survey asks important questions about people's health, their experiences of the existing benefits system, their hopes and the strategies they have used to try to get back into work.

We will use the results to lobby government. The Prime Minister must not be allowed to reduce his benefits bill at the cost of ruining the health of genuine claimants.

SIR PETER SPENCER
Chief Executive
Action for ME