Motion · S6M-18595 · 22 Aug 2025

World Arthritis Day 2025

Lodged by Pam Duncan-Glancy Members' Business Motion 33 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament notes that World Arthritis Day will be marked on 12 October 2025; understands that the day aims to raises global awareness of the existence and impact of rheumatic and musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases; believes that arthritis and MSK conditions affect one in three people in Scotland; considers that MSK conditions are a significant burden on NHS Scotland, with, it understands, orthopaedics currently accounting for one third of waiting times; further considers that there is a clear link between MSK conditions and economic deprivation and believes that these conditions are second only behind mental health in relation to claims for sickness benefit; notes the view that it vital that MSK conditions are prioritised to reflect the serious impact that they are having on Scotland’s public health, economy and society, and applauds what it sees as the excellent work of Versus Arthritis in Scotland to raise awareness of arthritis and change lives through world-class research, campaigning and service delivery.

Supporters (33)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.