Arthritis Support in the Workplace

I strongly agree that work is really important for ensuring that people with arthritis are able to lead fulfilling lives. I can assure you that as part of the Green Paper on work, health and disability, Ministers are exploring ways to improve support for people with conditions such as arthritis to find and remain in work. Musculoskeletal conditions are one of the two key areas, along with mental health, which the Green Paper is placing a specific focus on. 

For example, the Green Paper is looking at new ways of providing musculoskeletal care services, including physiotherapy, and providing earlier access to support to reduce work absence and prevent deterioration. It is also important to work more closely with employers to raise awareness of issues around disabilities and health conditions, and to share best practice. The Disability Confident campaign has done great work in this area in recent years, and a new Disability Confident Business Leaders Group was announced in the Green Paper to work alongside ministers and officials to increase employer engagement around disabled employment.

I am pleased that the Access to Work scheme is also being expanded to help more disabled people start or remain in work. Access to Work is receiving a real-terms increase in resources, enabling increased marketing of the scheme to raise awareness among those who could benefit from it. The new Personal Support Package announced in the Green Paper will also mean that people with health conditions such as arthritis will be able to receive employment support which is more tailored to their specific individual needs.