Local MP Cathy Jamieson has agreed to be an "Arthritis Champion" by throwing her support behind Arthritis Research UK's "Prevent, Transform, Cure" manifesto.

"Prevent, Transform, Cure" calls for decision makers to put in place policies that will lead to the prevention and cure of musculoskeletal conditions while transforming the service provided to those that live with them.

Musculoskeletal conditions include osteoarthritis, back pain and osteoporosis. People living with these conditions often experience a great deal of pain and a loss of mobility. Over 10 million people in the UK have a musculoskeletal condition.

Cathy said: "Musculoskeletal conditions prevent people from doing the things others take for granted, such as going to work, playing with children or grandchildren, walking to the shops or going out with friends. They affect a huge number of people and have a massive impact on those people's lives.

That is why I am delighted to have become an "Arthritis Champion”. We need to see change that creates the best possible policy environment in which to prevent and cure these conditions. We also need an urgent transformation of the services available to those that are living with these conditions now.” Dr Liam O’Toole, chief executive officer of Arthritis Research UK, said: “I’m delighted that Cathy has become an Arthritis Champion. We need politicians' help to champion the needs of people with arthritis both nationally and locally.

Our Arthritis Research UK manifesto sets out an exciting vision for the future of musculoskeletal conditions. We are calling for policy changes to support the prevention, transformation and cure of musculoskeletal conditions.

There is much that can be done: but we can’t do it alone. We need to work in partnership to put the needs of people with arthritis on the political agenda and transform the lives of people living with arthritis.”