Matt Rodda MP has learnt about the huge impact that arthritis related conditions have on 17.8 million people across the UK, after attending a recent parliamentary event.

MPs who attended the event also met people living with arthritis, who explained how the condition can affect their lives in different ways -; from going to work, to coping with the daily tasks such as cooking or driving that many people take for granted.

The event coincided with the launch of Arthritis Research UK’s new ‘Ask Us’ campaign, which encourages those living with arthritis to reach out to the charity and ask questions about their condition. The campaign directs people to information and advice provided by the charity, which is based on many years of research and knowledge from experts and patients. This information and advice is provided via their online information, helpline, and online ‘Virtual Assistant’. By working together with Matt and other supporting MPs, the charity hopes to encourage people to find the answers to their queries from a source they can trust.

Matt said:
“I was deeply concerned to learn that in Reading East, 6,817 people aged over 45 live with osteoarthritis of the knee, 4,205 people aged over 45 live with osteoarthritis of the hip, and 18,947 live with back pain. Too many people locally are living with daily pain, fatigue, and isolation. This is unacceptable.

“People living with these conditions must have their needs recognised, which is why I have pledged to be an Arthritis Champion and speak up in Parliament for people with arthritis.”