565 – that’s the number of children waiting to see a paediatric rheumatologist

for treatment for juvenile arthritis. The latest figures show that the

waiting list crisis has deepened, with the numbers of children waiting in

pain now far higher than the 304 recorded at the end of April.

It’s nothing short of a national health crisis, so enough is enough. As part of

National Arthritis Week, we’re calling for the urgent appointment of a third

paediatric rheumatologist to help ease the huge burden on overstretched

services. Children on waiting lists are not just waiting in pain; they’re also at risk of

permanent, irreversible joint damage that can impact on their ability to live

a normal life. So, this National Arthritis Week we’re asking the public to help us put an

end to Waiting in Pain. Help us by signing our petition.