Inflammatory Arthritis UK

Inflammatory Arthritis UK is a charity based in the UK, focused on supporting individuals affected by inflammatory arthritis (IA), a chronic and fluctuating condition that includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It is registered with the Charity Commission under number 1211390 and operates throughout England and Wales.

History and Founding

Inflammatory Arthritis UK was founded by Debbie and Katy, who collectively have over 50 years of lived experience with IA—Debbie with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and Katy with rheumatoid arthritis[4]. The charity is relatively new, having been registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) on December 12, 2024[5].

Mission and Objectives

The mission of Inflammatory Arthritis UK is to inspire resilience, empower lives, and create a supportive community for everyone affected by IA, regardless of age or diagnosis[4]. The charity aims to raise awareness of the impact of IA on individuals and society through education and advocacy[5]. They focus on addressing not just the physical symptoms but also the often overlooked aspects of living with IA, such as fatigue, pain, and the emotional impact[4].

Activities and Programs

Inflammatory Arthritis UK engages in various activities to achieve its objectives:

• Weekly Podcast: They produce a weekly podcast titled Inflammatory! where they discuss the realities of living with IA, offering practical insights and support[1].
• Community Support: The charity provides platforms for people with IA to connect and share their experiences, helping to build a supportive community[4].
• Collaborations: They work with researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to ensure the voices of those living with IA are heard and to drive positive change[4].

Governance

The charity is managed by four trustees: Debbie Lynda Wilson (Chair), Katy Rebecca Pieris, Sarah Adora Berry, and Iain McNicol. These trustees are responsible for overseeing the charity's activities, ensuring its objectives are met, and updating its governance details as necessary[5].

Impact and Future Plans

Inflammatory Arthritis UK is committed to breaking down misconceptions about IA and creating a future where no one with IA feels alone. By fostering a movement led by those who understand the challenges firsthand, they aim to empower lives and inspire resilience across the UK[4].

[1] https://inflammatoryarthritis.org [2] https://versusarthritis.org [3] https://nras.org.uk [4] https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/about-us/ [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5250653/full-print