I RECENTLY met a local teenage constituent who is suffering from ME and she detailed how her own diagnosis took a while, that current treatment options are not proving that helpful and that there is not enough support within the education system to deal with illnesses of this nature.

So in Parliament I raised these concerns that had been championed by my brave young constituent.

I know only too well as co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Lyme that conditions such as Lyme Disease and ME can often show similar symptoms, making mis-diagnosis and one-size-fits-all treatment plans challenging and I pushed for greater investment in research which is so desperately needed in this area.

I was delighted to bring the issues personally affecting one of my constituents to the Minister’s attention as I did the previous week in the acquired brain injuries debate for another constituent and I will continue to fight for individuals who have come to me for support with their difficult circumstances.

Recently in Parliament I spoke in support of the new settlement for EU nationals living in the UK after we leave the European Union. I welcomed the clarity and security that the government has offered to EU citizens living in Wiltshire which means they now have the peace of mind that they deserve.

I also highlighted the importance of a reciprocal agreement by EU member states for UK nationals abroad. A number of people from Wiltshire now live in the EU and they deserve this certainty too. This assurance will not just provide certainly to EU nationals here in the constituency but their family and friends and I would ask anyone who has concerns or would like any support in this to get in touch with me on michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.uk.

I have just arranged the next 10 open drop-in events across the constituency with venues in all the major towns and villages. Similar events held recently in Melksham, Chippenham, Hilperton and some other villages were very well attended and so I have increased the number to account for the demand.

Some people come to discuss local or national issues, ask my opinion on future bills which are likely to come before Parliament or to ask for my support with a personal problem or concern. I always try to be as accessible as possible so whatever your concern please do come along as I would be delighted to meet you with no appointment necessary. For full dates and times please email me on michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.com or call the office on 01249 704 465.