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Supporting Nursery Staff with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding the Impact and Offering Practical Solutions

September 17, 2024
5 minute read

Written by CEO & Founder of TEYC, Kelly Hill.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Its impact can be debilitating, particularly for those working in physically demanding environments such as nurseries. As someone living with arthritis myself, I understand the daily struggles it brings, and the importance of creating supportive workplace environments for others in similar situations.

The Impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis on Team Members

Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 400,000 people in the UK. It can lead to chronic pain, fatigue, and reduced mobility, which makes physical tasks incredibly challenging. For early years employees whose roles often involve lifting, bending, carrying, and moving quickly, this can be a significant challenge. The constant demands of caring for young children can exacerbate symptoms, and over time, this may result in both physical and emotional exhaustion.

Employees with RA often find themselves balancing pain management with maintaining productivity, but this balance can be hard to strike. According to a study by Arthritis UK, many individuals living with arthritis worry about their ability to stay in employment, often leading to stress and anxiety about their futures. This is a concern that affects not only the individual but also the nursery setting, as the quality of care and support for children can be compromised when staff are struggling to manage their health.

My Personal Experience with Arthritis

Living with arthritis has given me a personal insight into the challenges faced by those with the condition. On a daily basis, I manage fluctuating pain levels and stiffness, which can be particularly challenging during periods of flare-ups when even basic movements feel like a struggle. Nursery duties can feel relentless when you’re contending with arthritis—particularly when moving from one task to another or managing a room full of active young children.

However, through a combination of management strategies, both personal and professional, I’ve learned that it’s possible to continue working in such an environment while managing arthritis. My own experience has reinforced the importance of workplace support, and of managers and colleagues being aware of the condition and its challenges.

How Nursery Managers Can Support Staff with Arthritis

Nursery managers play a pivotal role in supporting staff members with rheumatoid arthritis. While the condition can be invisible to others, the impact is very real, and understanding this is key to building a compassionate, supportive work environment. Here are some practical ways nursery managers can provide meaningful support:

  • Flexible Working Hours

Fatigue and joint pain can vary in intensity from day to day. Offering flexible working hours or allowing staff to take short breaks throughout the day can provide relief when symptoms flare up. This flexibility helps workers manage their pain and reduce stress.

  • Task Modification

Small adjustments to day-to-day tasks can make a big difference for staff with arthritis. Consider assigning physically demanding tasks to other team members or using assistive equipment to reduce strain on the joints. For example, using stools to avoid constant bending, or modifying lifting protocols, can be invaluable for those with limited mobility.

  • Encouraging Regular Movement

Sitting or standing in one position for long periods can exacerbate stiffness and pain for individuals with arthritis. Encourage staff to move regularly, stretch, and shift their positions throughout the day. A workspace that supports movement rather than rigid postures helps ease joint strain.

  • Creating an Open Dialogue

It’s essential to build an environment where staff feel comfortable discussing their health conditions without fear of judgment or repercussions. Managers should encourage open conversations about arthritis and other health issues and be proactive in offering adjustments or support as needed.

  • Access to Medical Support

Ensure that staff have access to information about occupational health services or other professional medical advice. Signposting to local resources or offering workplace assessments to adjust duties can make a significant difference.

  • Mental Health Support

Living with a chronic condition like arthritis can take an emotional toll. Offering mental health support, whether through in-house counselling services or by referring staff to external professionals, can help staff manage the psychological challenges of chronic illness.

UK-Based Resources for Supporting Employees with Arthritis

Several UK-based resources can offer valuable support and guidance for managing arthritis in the workplace:

  • Arthritis Action

Arthritis Action offers self-management tools and workshops designed to help individuals manage their arthritis symptoms. Employers can use these resources to better understand how to support employees with RA. More information can be found on their website: arthritisaction.org.uk.

  • Versus Arthritis

Versus Arthritis is a leading UK charity offering a wealth of information, support groups, and advice for individuals living with arthritis. Their online community is particularly valuable for those seeking emotional support. You can visit them at versusarthritis.org.

  • Fit for Work

Fit for Work is a government-funded initiative designed to support employees who need advice on managing long-term conditions in the workplace. It provides free, impartial advice to employers and employees about how to deal with work-related health issues. Their website is fitforwork.org.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex condition, but with the right support in place, individuals living with it can continue to thrive in the workplace. Nursery managers have a unique opportunity to encourage an inclusive environment where staff with arthritis feel valued and supported. By offering flexibility, adjusting tasks, and ensuring access to medical and emotional support, managers can help ease the burden of the condition.

To find out more about supporting your staff with rheumatoid arthritis, visit the resources mentioned above or speak to an occupational health advisor. Providing this support can make a world of difference to both staff well-being and the overall effectiveness of your nursery setting

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