World Young Rheumatic Diseases (WORD) Day

That this House marks World Young Rheumatic Diseases Day, held annually on 18 March, raising awareness of rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions affecting children and young people; recognises that thousands of young people across the United Kingdom, including in Northern Ireland, live with conditions such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases which can have a profound impact on their daily lives, education and long-term health outcomes; acknowledges the importance of early diagnosis, timely access to specialist paediatric rheumatology services and ongoing support for affected families; notes the vital work of charities, clinicians and support networks across the UK, including those operating in Northern Ireland, in improving care and advocating for patients; calls for continued investment in research, workforce capacity and equitable access to services in all regions of the UK; and encourages greater public understanding of these often invisible conditions to ensure that young people living with rheumatic diseases receive the support they need to thrive.