What action it is taking to ensure that people with long COVID, myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and other si…

The Scottish Government recognises the significant impact that long COVID, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and similar conditions can have on people’s lives.The 2025-26 Scottish Budget included an additional £4.5 million to support the development and delivery of specialist support across Scotland for people with long COVID, ME/CFS and other similar conditions. This funding has been confirmed on a recurring basis, providing NHS boards with longer-term certainty to develop services sustainably and support the recruitment and retention of the skilled staff required to deliver them.Responsibility for the planning and delivery of healthcare services rests with individual NHS boards. We have therefore provided boards with flexibility to develop and deliver models of care that reflect local population needs and circumstances, while following relevant clinical guidance.While NHS Highland establishes its Post-Infection Recovery Service, patients with long COVID, ME/CFS and similar conditions continue to be able to access assessment, treatment and support through existing NHS services, including primary care and other appropriate local pathways and services based on their individual clinical needs.The Scottish Government continues to engage with NHS boards on the development of specialist support for people with long COVID, ME/CFS and similar conditions.