SOUTHEND West MP, Sir David Amess, has called on the Government to provide more support for workers with arthritis to help close the “arthritis employment gap”.

According to Arthritis Research UK, only 60 per cent of working age people with a musculoskeletal condition are in work, compared to 80 per cent among those without a health condition or a disability.

Now, following the Government’s Improving Lives consultation on employment support for disabled people, Sir David is calling on the Government to ensure that people with arthritis have the support to stay at work for longer:.

Sir David said: “It’s clear how enormous the impact of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions is on our local communities. 30,251 residents are living with back pain, a leading cause of sickness absence, in Southend right now –17.3 per cent of local people.

“The ability to work is something that we often take for granted, but I’ve learnt that for those living with arthritis this can be difficult. However, with the right support and flexibility many people are able to work.

“That’s why I’m supporting Arthritis Research UK’s Work Matters to Me campaign.”