We support the Calderdale Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

We have awarded a grant of up to £200 to the Calderdale Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group, a new local peer-support group for people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The group was founded by local resident Andrew, after his own diagnosis with RA in August 2025. In seeking advice and support, Andrew found that there was limited opportunity locally for people with the condition to meet others who understood its practical and emotional effects. He began by bringing people together through social media and has since established monthly face-to-face meetings at Hebden Bridge Town Hall.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition which can cause pain, fatigue and loss of mobility. For many people it can be isolating, particularly when family, friends and even employers may not fully understand the unpredictable nature of the condition.

The Calderdale group offers a relaxed and supportive place for people to talk, exchange information and learn from the experience of others. It works alongside the Staying Well social-prescribing team, which has helped to establish the monthly meetings and publicise them locally.

The Rotary grant will contribute towards the cost of Town Hall room hire and the printing of leaflets. This will help the group continue its meetings through the end of 2026 and beyond and improve awareness among people who may not use social media.

Although still in its early stages, the group has already attracted local members and received encouraging feedback from attendees. One participant described it as the first support group they had attended and said that it had been “lovely”; others have valued the chance to learn from fellow sufferers’ lived experience.

The Club is pleased to support this practical local initiative and wishes Andrew and the group every success as it develops.

People interested in finding out more can visit Calderdale RA Support Group – Calderdale Forum 50 Plus  or search for Calderdale RA Support Group on Facebook.

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