Background: Although numerous arthritis charities exist, a clear gap remains in dedicated support for people living with inflammatory arthritis (IA). Many individuals experience more than one IA condition and struggle to find resources that reflect the full scope of their lived experience. Publicly available information is often shaped by the medical model and focused on clinical education, leaving psychosocial, emotional, and day-to-day challenges underrepresented. People affected by IA consistently express a desire to hear from others who truly understand the fluctuating, unpredictable nature of these conditions. In response, Inflammatory Arthritis UK (IAUK) was established and launched in 2025 to provide a holistic, patient-led space where every voice matters and lived experience is recognised as expertise.

• To create a patient-led charity that reflects the full lived experience of IA across conditions, ages, and identities.

• To provide accessible, relatable resources that complement clinical information and address the emotional, social, and practical realities of IA.

• To build a supportive community that reduces isolation and fosters confidence through shared experience.

• To ensure the patient voice informs research, education, and service design through meaningful partnerships with professionals.

• To innovate in digital engagement, using podcasts and online platforms to reach people where they are.

Methods: IAUK was founded by two individuals with a combined 50 years of lived experience of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The charity’s work is grounded in three core pillars: lived experience, community connection, and collaboration with professionals. Key initiatives include:

• Inflammatory! Navigating Life with IA – a weekly podcast addressing topics often overlooked in clinical settings, such as fatigue, pain, work-life balance, mental health, identity, and relationships.

• Peer and community support networks that promote resilience, shared learning, and belonging.

• Strategic partnerships with researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to ensure patient perspectives shape education, research priorities, and service delivery.

• Digital engagement , including video content, social media outreach, and accessible online resources.

Results: Feedback indicates that IAUK is recognised as a strong, community-first charity with a growing reputation for structured, meaningful research partnerships. The organisation has cultivated an active digital presence, with increasing engagement from volunteers, patients, and professionals who value its inclusive and collaborative approach. IAUK is rapidly evolving and is already a pioneer in the digital space through podcasting, video content, and online engagement. Its early impact has been acknowledged nationally, with IAUK named Arthritis Support Charity of the Year in the UK. Community feedback highlights the value of hearing from people who “get it”, with listeners reporting reduced isolation, increased confidence, and a sense of validation through shared experience.

Conclusions: IAUK demonstrates the power of patient-led innovation in rheumatology. By amplifying lived experiences and fostering genuine collaboration, the charity bridges the gap between medical understanding and everyday life with IA. Its message “One community. Every story. All IA.” reflects a commitment to ensuring that every person affected by inflammatory arthritis feels seen, supported, and never alone. IAUK’s model highlights the essential role of patient-driven organisations in shaping more holistic, person-centred care.

REFERENCES: NIL.

Acknowledgments: NIL.

Disclosure of Interests: None declared.