A question of balance

ARMA CEOby Sue Brown, CEO ARMA

Last month I joined about 200 others at a government consultation event for the Ten Year Health Plan. Patient organisations, voluntary sector and professional bodies came together to get updates from the consultation process so far and discuss questions arising from the vision groups’ work.

Around our tables we were asked to consider one of three questions about how the NHS can make the shift to working more in partnership – with patients, communities and the voluntary sector.…

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Free NASS online help for those recently diagnosed

Bespoke self-management and peer support for people in England recently diagnosed with axial SpA

NASS is running free online sessions for people in England recently diagnosed with axial SpA.

As part of the sign-up process, attendees select bespoke support from NASS, such as a chat with someone on the Helpline, resources sent in the post, and information about exercising safely. 

For more information, visit the NASS website.

If you’d like free postcards to invite your patients, you can order guides to living with axial spa.…

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Finance & Operations Coordinator vacancy

Arthritis ActionArthritis Action are recruiting for a Finance & Operations Coordinator in a full-time hybrid role.

This is a varied role supporting Arthritis Action’s finance, operations and administrative processes. You will ensure the smooth running of the Charity’s finance and operations to meet its evolving needs and ensure efficiencies.

Applications close 20th February 2025.

Learn more and apply today.

Exploring education pathways in MSK Medicine

Johnny Smith, SOMM’s Chair of Education, recently recorded a webinar with Katie Emmett from Physiquipe where they explored pathways in MSK Medicine. Johnny highlighted the ways in which SOMM ensures their content is current, evidence-based and how the approach has evolved over the years. It became apparent that there is synergy with SOMM and Physiquipe, and both parties are looking forward to further collaboration in the future, which will certainly benefit MSK education and services delivered.

Please view the recording by following this link: A Conversation with SOMM.

FSEM’s Diploma examinations 2025

Team CareDiploma in Team Care

The Diploma in Team Care will set the standard for Team Care knowledge across Sport and Exercise Medicine.

Applications open now.
Exam sitting: 15th April 2025

Learn more and apply

FSEM diploma coursesDiploma in MSK Medicine

The Diploma in Musculoskeletal Medicine sets the standard for MSK knowledge across the entire breadth of community care.

Applications open now.
Exam sitting: 20th May 2025

Learn more and apply

New patient-led charity, new podcast

IAUK bannerInflammatory Arthritis UK (IAUK) is a new patient-led charity run by volunteers living with inflammatory arthritis. Their vision and mission centres on inspiring resilience and empowering lives for anyone of any age living with inflammatory arthritis. They will be providing people with the support, guidance and resources they need to take control of lives and navigate uncertain times with confidence and resilience.

“Great idea for a charity, I have found attitude and resilience to have been the most important things so far and have certainly been a on a massive journey the last couple of years with it (IA)”.

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Supporting people with chronic conditions

The Welsh Parliament’s Health and Social Care Committee has published its report Supporting people with chronic conditions.

The report makes a number of urgent recommendations to the Welsh Government to ensure that people currently living with chronic conditions are being properly supported and are receiving the services they need to manage their care.

You can read ARMA’s evidence to the Committee here.

You can read the full report here.

Getting the most out of your appointments

The Patients Association has launched two resources, an animation and a guide, which provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need so they are prepared to get the most out of their care. This includes:

  • ensuring they are prepared;
  • guidance on how they can prevent things going wrong;
  • steps they can take at each stage of their journey through the healthcare system.

The advice covers before, during and after appointments, focusing on communication, sharing information, and accessibility.

Both the animation and the guide can be viewed and downloaded from the Patients Association website.…

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