THE MP for Keighley has supported a campaign to help people who have arthritis return to or stay in employment.
Kris Hopkins attended a reception in Westminster to find out more about arthritis and about Arthritis Research UK’s Work Matters to Me initiative.
The charity has argued that what it calls the "Arthritis employment gap" is considerable, with the employment rate amongst people with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions 20 per cent lower than amongst people with no condition or disability.
Mr Hopkins said: “The ability to work is something that can be taken for granted but, for people living with arthritis, it can often be a challenge.
“Arthritis Research UK advised me that, across Bradford District, 84,273 people suffer from back pain, which is 16.06 per cent of the resident population.
“Nationally, back pain costs the economy an estimated £10 billion each year, a figure which jumps to £25 billion when you include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
“I commend Arthritis Research UK on their campaign, and for placing the vital important issues it raises on the agenda.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here