Ruth joined Arthritis Action as Area Coordinator for Midlands and the North of England, to help us set up more services in the region, and bring local communities together.
When did you join the charity?
I joined Arthritis Action at the end of July 2018 and have spent my first few weeks getting my head around all of the charity’s activities.
What is your background?
My background is in charities and the public sector at a range of roles, from project managing an international poetry competition for young people and developing a young people’s engagement strategy for a police force, to running arts engagement projects for disadvantaged young people and organizing conferences for a range of audiences. The thread running across all past roles has been engaging with people from all walks of life, understanding their needs and providing the best possible projects and events for them.
What do you feel the Charity offers people living with arthritis? Why do you recommend becoming Member of the Charity?
For me the best thing about Arthritis Action is the focus on self-management. Feeling like you have the ability and knowledge to make beneficial changes to your life is really empowering. I also think the range of resources and approaches offered by the charity is fantastic – it means you can pick what is right for you, right now, and adapt as things change.
What do you do in your day-to day?
I’m based in Derby and will be focusing on the Midlands and North, working on Arthritis Action Groups, Self-Management Events, and developing Arthritis Action’s offer to those in the area. My day-to-day can include researching and booking venues, facilitating a Group discussion, or networking with local contacts. As a completely new role, I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops in response to the needs of the Charity and the Members.
What is your favourite thing about Arthritis Action’s events?
I’m looking forward to meeting the variety of people who come to the events and getting to know them, as well as their top tips for managing their conditions.
What is your favourite sandwich filling?
It really changes day-to-day, but I could never turn down anything involving goats’ cheese.
What is your favourite inspirational quote?
“Be kind, but be fierce”
What is your current favourite book?
It’s so hard to pick a favourite! I love reading and my favourite authors are Thomas Hardy, Margaret Attwood, Cormac McCarthy and Jeanette Winterson. At a push for a favourite book I’d have to say Jude The Obscure. I’ve read it so many times and every time I love it more.
Anything else you would like to add?
I’m really looking forward to getting out and about and meeting as many Members, volunteers and contacts as possible. Hopefully I’ll get to meet you all soon! 🙂
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For any questions email us on info@arthritisaction.org.uk, or call us on 0203 781 7120.