Dame Caroline Spelman MP has pledged to continue to work with the charity Arthritis Research UK to push back the limits of arthritis for the thousands of local people living with the pain, isolation and fatigue of the condition.
Dame Caroline has joined forces with the charity as part of its Share Your Everyday campaign, asking local people to share their everyday experiences of living with arthritis.
10 million people live with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions across the UK.
In Solihull Borough, 38,787 people live with back pain alone, with a further 5,889 and 10,872 living with osteoarthritis of the knee and hip, the two most common forms of the painful condition.
Speaking as Arthritis Champion for Meriden, Dame Caroline said;
“What this campaign has made clear is the massive impact arthritis can have on a person’s life, and the significant number of local people that are living with arthritis right now.
“Arthritis is a painful condition and can really impact upon a person’s independence.
“For that reason, I will be encouraging the Government to further support Arthritis Research UK to ensure that those living with this condition receive the care, support and opportunities they need to live more independent lives”.
“Local residents should not be limited by their arthritis and am delighted to be able to support Arthritis Research UK’s ‘Share Your Everyday campaign’.”
Arthritis Research UK director of external affairs, Olivia Belle, said:
"Arthritis is the biggest cause of pain and disability in the UK, but we know that many people with arthritis often feel isolated by the pain and fatigue of their condition.
"I’m delighted Dame Caroline is involved with our Share Your Everyday campaign, giving people with arthritis in Meriden constituency a voice.
“There is much that can be done to improve the support available to people living with arthritis, but we can’t do it alone. MPs and the Government can play a key role in pushing back the limits of arthritis for the 10 million living with arthritis across the UK.
“This year we’re asking people to share their everyday with us, to help us continue to harness the power of exceptional science and push back the limits of arthritis.
"With everyone’s support, we can continue to invest in breakthrough treatments, the best information and vital support for everyone affected by arthritis today, and in the future.”
Share your everyday experiences of living with arthritis to help Arthritis Research UK find your everyday freedom. With your support Arthritis Research UK can help millions of people push back the limits of arthritis > Visit www.arthritisresearchuk.org/shareyoureveryday now to share your experiences.