Managing at work

Most people with arthritis manage to stay in work, although they often need help to do so.

If your arthritis has, or will have, a serious effect on your daily activities, you have rights under the Equality Act (Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland). This means your employer must make reasonable adjustments to support you at work. If you are not considered disabled according to the Equality Act definition, it is still good practice for your employer to make reasonable attempts to adapt to your needs.

Learning to effectively self-manage your condition can help you adapt to working life. Arthritis Care’s self-management programmes are run across the UK. They are presented by people living with arthritis and other long-term conditions who can really relate to you.

The Preparing for Work programme is aimed at people with arthritis of working age and focuses on gaining the skills and confidence to start work.

There is also lots of information on managing at work on the Work Life website. 

Your needs at work

Arthritis is a fluctuating condition, so your needs may change from time to time. It is important to review your situation regularly with your employer. Talk to your manager about how to get the most out of your time at work, while protecting your health.

All employers must provide safe and suitable work equipment. If you are office-based you can ask for a ‘workstation assessment’. You will be advised on how to minimise discomfort at your workstation, and if necessary, provided with special equipment, for example, a more supportive chair, footrests, a desk of the right height or a user-friendly keyboard and mouse.

Making changes

If you are having difficulty at work, you may benefit from extra support. It is better to seek help sooner rather than later – simple adjustments can help you do your job better and more comfortably.

For example, temporarily reducing your hours or working from home might help you to get the rest you need while remaining in work. Talk to your manager, human resources contact, occupational health adviser or trade union representative. The Arthritis Care helpline may also be able to help.

Here are some tips to help you manage your arthritis at work.

• Take time to relax and unwind at the end of the working day
• Exercise regularly to beat stress and maintain mobility
• Rest after exertion or at the first sign of a flare-up
• Take regular breaks and move around during the day
• Maintain good posture to reduce strain on your joints
• Plan your workload carefully to help reduce stress.

The disability employment adviser at your local Jobcentre Plus (employment service advisers in JobCentres/Jobs and Benefits Offices in Northern Ireland) can give practical support and advice to you or your employer on job and workplace adjustments.

Disclosing arthritis

Many people feel anxious about telling their employer about their condition for fear of being judged or discriminated against. However, there are good reasons for being open about your arthritis and how it affects you.

Colleagues may be more sympathetic if they understand your condition. Your employer may be able to make arrangements to help you work effectively. Remember that you must disclose your condition to be covered by the Equality Act (Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland).

You should tell your employer about your arthritis if it might present a health and safety risk to you or your work colleagues. See the Telling your employer about arthritis section for more information.

Fit note

As of April 2010, the fit note – or statement of fitness for work – replaced the sick note. Your GP will use this form to provide information on how your condition may affect your ability to work, so that you can discuss this with your employer to see if you can return to work.

Your GP will advise that you are fit for work if they think returning to work – with support from your employer – will help you. They may suggest changes that will help a return to work, such as starting part-time.