Santa service: Arthritis Care on Christmas call

Arthritis Care President, Jane Asher, has written a letter to newspapers across the country reminding their readers with arthritis that they can call Arthritis Care’s Helpline for information and support this Christmas. Here’s what she said:

For most of us, Christmas is a time for getting together with the family, celebrating with friends, eating wonderful food and exchanging presents.

But for many of the UK's nine million people with arthritis, it can be a surprisingly lonely time.

Some people who are severely affected by the condition may be housebound in icy weather, while others are isolated by their own pain and the depression it causes, even when surrounded by people.

Arthritis doesn't go away for Christmas, and just because someone doesn't complain or is not obviously in pain, it doesn't mean they are not. To help, I'm proud to say that Arthritis Care is opening its Helpline for extra days during the holiday. This special Santa service means that people who are cut off by pain or loneliness can pick up the phone and get real support from someone who understands.

So, if you or someone in the family has arthritis, do keep Arthritis Care's free Helpline number nearby 0808 800 4050 – it could make a real difference in a moment of need.

I wish all your readers a very happy Christmas.

Jane Asher
President, Arthritis Care