Charity Information

WAMES became a registered charity in November 2011. Registered charity number 1144534

Our work is governed by our constitution and written policies – safeguarding confidentiality, equal opportunities, volunteering, trustees and grievance procedures.

The governing committee (board of trustees) consists mainly of people with ME and carers, and is elected by members at the AGM every March/April. They are responsible for implementing the WAMES strategy and carrying out the day-to-day operation of the Association.

Membership is open to residents in Wales aged 18+, and to organisations based in Wales who support the aims of WAMES. Members usually join in order to take part in the work and help guide the charity’s priority activities, but we also welcome volunteers and supporters who are in agreement with our aims, but do not wish to become members or trustees.

More information

WAMES was set up in 2001 by local support groups to address the issues caused by devolution and a bilingual society. Advocacy activity in England no longer affected services in Wales and many people could not access information about ME in their native language.

The organisation was launched with an awareness raising event in the National Assembly consisting of an exhibition, information and talks by our Medical Adviser Dr Betty Dowsett (originally from Newport, Gwent), Chris Clarke (Action for ME) and a young person with severe ME. This was the start of our political campaign for recognition of ME and services.

Hedd Gwynfor kindly adapted his bilingual website to become the WAMES website and in 2005 we produced our first bilingual leaflet: Pacing for ME & CFS: a guide for patients, by Dr Ellen Goudsmit.

In 2006 we widened our support base in order to fully meet the challenges of the future. A new constitution was adopted which made us independent of the local groups. From that point on people with ME and carers, as well as support groups, from all parts of Wales were invited to join our work as trustees, supporters or volunteers.

We are largely funded by donations from individuals, online shopping and ME support groups. Find out how to hep us fundraise. Add link

ME/CFS Delivery Plan for Wales proposal for Wales – 26 October 2023

WAMES Vision for ME/CFS Healthcare in Wales Statement 2026/27

Gweledigaeth WAMES ar gyfer ME/CFS Gofal Iechyd yng Nghymru 2026/27

A Patchwork of Progress, Regional Variations and Gaps – A Report of ME/CFS Services in Wales
Survey 2025-6