Impact of Arthritis & MSK at Work

In order to better understand the impact arthritis or MSK conditions have on work, our member, Versus Arthritis carried out two surveys in 2023 to hear from workplace health professionals and people living with arthritis or related musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.

Understanding work-related support for people with arthritis or MSK survey, was aimed at hearing from people living with the conditions,
Workplace Health Gap report SOM 2023, within this report, created jointly with Society of Occupational Medicine, we hear from workplace health professionals, who support individuals with work-related issues.

Although employers are obliged to consider reasonable adjustments to address barriers to work, many employees still struggle to receive the support they need to work well. Within the survey we hear from employees who have had to change roles or leave work, their experiences of Occupational health and Access to work assessments, the lack of influence they have to ensure that recommendations are implemented, as well as the confusion on understanding rights.

Workplace professionals emphasised their desire for practical information and resources to support those they are advising. To help support patients to remain in or return to work, they highlighted the need for increased understanding of the impact of treatment, management of flares and support for those waiting for surgery.

The sheer number of resources related to work and employability can make it difficult for time pressed health professionals to locate the information they need to effectively support and signpost. Access to an online resource that brings together all relevant information and resources was recommended as a way to address this.

Both reports highlight the need for information and support to ensure workplace adjustments or equipment is put in place. While survey respondents shared incidences of good practice, the majority felt there is a need for,