Arthritis UK's response to the Conservative Party's proposed benefits overhaul
10 November 2026
Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Arthritis UK, said:
“Today’s Conservative Party announcement on a proposed benefit overhaul for people experiencing back and joint pain is not backed by evidence. It is simply incorrect for the report to state there are fewer extra costs for people living with arthritis and that in most circumstances it doesn’t impact ability to work or earnings potential.
“Arthritis UK recently found that 59% of people living with arthritis receiving PIP have had to make cuts to their usual spending and 69% reported earning less from paid employment because of their condition.
“People living with arthritis are the second largest cohort of claimants for PIP. There is nothing routine about living with the daily pain and fatigue of arthritis.
“People with arthritis must not pay the price of welfare reform.”
About Arthritis UK
Arthritis UK is the leading arthritis charity, changing lives through research, campaigning and support.
Over 10 million adults, young people and children in the UK live with arthritis. That’s one in six of us living with the pain, fatigue, disability, mental and financial strain it can cause. Many more live with arthritis but remain undiagnosed, untreated and unsupported.
We know the impact of arthritis can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently. Yet for a condition affecting so many, it’s poorly understood and far too little is done. That’s why we invest in life-changing research into better treatments, support people through the daily challenges of life with arthritis, and campaign on the issues that matter most to people living with it.
At Arthritis UK, we won’t rest until everyone with arthritis has access to treatments and support they need to live the life they choose, with real hope for a cure in the future. Find out more at: www.arthritis-uk.org
Arthritis UK. For a future free from arthritis.