Help for young people and families

Adjusting to a new diagnosis and living with arthritis can be hard. If you are struggling, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here for you.

Have a look at the options below to find out how we can help you and your family, and get in touch to find out more.

We know how great it can be to chat to other people who understand what it’s like to have arthritis as a young person, or to connect with other parents who have children with arthritis.

If you (or your child) is under 25, get in touch to find out more. Once you’ve signed up to our service we will send you information about what’s available locally or coming up soon.

In the meantime, here is an overview of what’s available:

One-to-one Support

Chat with a member of our staff who understands what you’re going through, and who can offer tips, advice and support.

Face-to-face Events

We run face-to-face events in some areas, so get in touch to find out what’s available.

The next event in your area could be a regular small social meet ups, a one-day event, or an overnight/ weekend away. You could be going to the cinema, taking part in an outdoor activity, doing something creative, sharing tips on living with arthritis or sometimes we will do something else entirely!

Whatever we do, there will be one thing that stays the same: you will be guaranteed to hang out with other young people who have a condition like yours, and who just get it. Just as there’s more to you than your condition, our events aren’t only about arthritis – they’re about having fun, too!

We know that it can be daunting to try something new. Our staff, volunteers and other young people know how it feels to join a new group, and work hard to make sure everyone feels welcome and safe.

All our events are fully funded, insured, and run by qualified and experienced staff, and all staff and volunteers have a criminal records check.

Online Events

Whether or not there is a face to face event near you, you will always be able to access our virtual events.

Join us for our popular scavenger hunts, quizzes, catch-ups and bingo, or join one of our workshops.

Build your confidence in talking to health professionals, teachers and employers and find out your rights and what support you are entitled to when it comes to managing your health.

Get in touch to find out more.

Arthritis Tracker is a mobile app that helps you keep track of your symptoms, so you can understand your arthritis more and feel prepared for your next health appointment.

The app is really simple and easy to use, and has been made with the help of lots of young people like yourself.

Find out more about Arthritis Tracker.

If you would like to speak with someone as soon as possible, you can call our helpline advisors from Monday to Friday during normal working hours.

They are ready to be a listening ear and can bring all of the information and advice about arthritis into one place to provide tailored support for you.

Find out more about the helpline.

The Versus Arthritis Online Community is an online community for people living with arthritis and people caring and supporting those living with arthritis to share experiences and ask questions.

There is a section for parents and carers, as well as a section for young people in their 20s.

Visit the online community