Branches

Arthritis Care provides a UK-wide network of branches and groups. People with arthritis – and those without it – come together regularly to:

• support each other
• share ideas on managing the condition
• actively manage their arthritis – such as through exercise classes
• enjoy social time at regular meetings and a range of events
• provide Arthritis Care’s information booklets to people who need them locally
• campaign on local issues, such as access to buildings, transportation and provision of services
• learn more about arthritis, through talking to others and guest speakers
• raise awareness locally about arthritis and Arthritis Care

There are approximately 250 branches and groups across the UK. They are run by volunteers and supported by the local Arthritis Care teams. You can find out more about what is going on in your area, and locate your nearest branch.

Support

Arthritis can be an isolating condition. If mobility is a problem, and if people are unable to work or get out and about because of their arthritis, it can be lonely. Branch and group members benefit from knowing other people locally who have arthritis – people they can meet with, or pick up the phone and talk to.

Managing arthritis

Through contact with other people with arthritis, branch and group members can exchange tips on managing the condition. Sharing experiences of complementary therapies , pain management, diet and exercise is very useful in managing arthritis. Some branches organise exercise classes, tai chi courses or hydrotherapy sessions. Exercise is very important in managing arthritis and doing it in a group can be motivating and fun.

Information and awareness

Branches and groups provide information to their members, through Arthritis Care’s publications and through guest speakers. Sharing ideas and experiences with other members also contributes to people’s understanding of arthritis – knowledge is power and it helps people live with and manage their condition.

Branches also help to raise awareness of arthritis and Arthritis Care locally by providing information about our publications and our helplines service , and through fundraising and awareness raising events.

This provides local people with much needed support and a greater understanding of arthritis. It also helps debunk myths like arthritis is only a condition that affects older people.

Campaigning

Arthritis Care branches and groups provide an excellent way to effect change in your area. Campaigns to gain access to public spaces, rheumatology services and hydrotherapy pools serve the needs of people with arthritis in the community.

Branch members can divide the time, energy and contacts to ensure greater representation for people with arthritis locally. Your local Arthritis Care office can give plenty of tips and help support your local campaigns.