Self help group

M.E. (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis), which is also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome, is a chronic, disabling illness, which can affect both adults and children. It is currently estimated that there are over 250,000 sufferers throughout the U.K., and around 25,000 of these are children.

The Richmond & Kingston & West London ME Group supports individuals with ME and Long Covid and associated chronic conditions, their families and carers, principally in the London boroughs of Richmond, Kingston, Hounslow, Ealing, Hillingdon, Hammersmith  and surrounding areas, but we also have and welcome members from anywhere.

In Summer 2025 Richmond and Kingston ME Group merged with Network MESH West London, and we have combined the programmes of each.

We have an extensive social programme with, typically, ten meetings each month: two face-to-face coffee meetings and eight online meetings: four online (Zoom) chat meetings (late morning, afternoon and 2 evening), and four quieter afternoon Zoom meetings (mindfulness, crafting, silent reading, mindful self-compassion). In June 2025 we celebrated our 450th online meeting; these meetings are suitable for all, including some of our more severely affected housebound and bedbound members, as well as those who live outside the area. We are also currently part of the Kew Gardens Community groups scheme, offering free Kew entry to members.

We have a newsletter and a more informational quarterly e-bulletin, free libraries of relevant books and equipment, a closed e-mail chat group, a WhatsApp community (including a group for younger members), a Facebook page, an Instagram account, an X account and an informative website. We currently have 300 members.