Some Veterans already in, or entering, the civilian workforce may have additional needs as a result of their service. Some of these could be caused by the onset of certain conditions such as Arthritis.
We take a look at Arthritis, its causes and symptoms, and whether your employer is obliged to assist you in your day to day duties to facilitate such a condition.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition which causes pain, inflammation and stiffness in joints. This condition can make it difficult and painful to move, and can even restrict movement.
Types of arthritis include:
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Gout
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
What are the symptoms of Arthritis?
Symptoms can include any or all of the following: stiffness, inflammation, pain and decreased range of motion. Arthritis can affect any joint, but it commonly appears in:
- Wrists, hands and fingers
- Ankles, feet and toes
- Back and spine
- Knees and hips
What can cause Arthritis?
- Osteoarthritis – Damage to cartilage around joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – An incorrect immune response which attacks joints, leading to weakening.
Risk factors include:
- Family history – Arthritis can be genetic.
- Age – Risk increases with age.
- Sex – Women are more prone to rheumatoid arthritis, whereas more gout sufferers are male.
- Previous joint injury – Accidents or sports injuries where damage has occurred can increase risk in later life.
- Excess weight – Stress caused to joints can increase risk over time.
Why might former service members be at increased risk of Arthritis?
Depending on the role, those who have served may have obtained injuries during exercises and training in the past, or deal with activities that put joints under more strain than other jobs.
Past injuries and wear and tear mean that the likelihood of developing arthritis may be higher for someone who served compared to someone who didn’t.
Is my employer obliged to acknowledge my condition?
In order to be able to act, your employer must know about your condition. It is not a requirement to disclose arthritis, but if your employer is unaware of it and a problem arises, they are unable to assist in the first instance.
Once your employer does know, however, they are required to listen to your needs and, if possible – implement Reasonable Adjustments.
What are Reasonable Adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are realistic changes to your working environment which allow you to carry out your job to the best of your ability, taking your condition into consideration.
An employer does not have to make adjustments that are unreasonable. However, they should still find other ways to offer support.
Such adjustments could include situating you on the ground floor of an office building to avoid stairs, ergonomic office equipment (such as a mouse), or a stepladder with handrails, etc. Needs will obviously vary depending on the nature of your disability and your work.
Can I take action if work is aggravating my condition and my Employer is not listening?
If your employer is aware of your condition and has refused to investigate the possibility of Reasonable Adjustments, has not implemented appropriate and realistic ones, or has failed in your opinion to accommodate you in adequate adjustments, you may be experiencing Workplace Discrimination.
If this is the case, you may be eligible to take action against your employer.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Generally, for a workplace dispute that occurred after the 1st of October 2026, you have six months less one day to make a claim. For disputes that occurred before this date, you have three months minus a day for most claims.
A Solicitor would have to examine your circumstances fully to be able to determine any potential next steps.
Would it be recommended to use a Solicitor to make a dispute or Discrimination claim?
You do not technically need a Solicitor to represent you in the employment tribunal, but due to the complexities of Employment Law, it would be strongly advised to seek representation to make sure you present the strongest case.
Why choose Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?
Oakwood Solicitors is committed to supporting Armed Forces personnel, veterans and reservists, whether they are still serving or have entered civilian life.
Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant, our team is passionate about supporting and seeking justice for those who have served our country.
With a proven track record of success and a commitment to protecting your rights, we are the trusted choice for military personnel seeking justice.
Further reading
Employment Law – Oakwood Solicitors
Reasonable adjustments at work – ACAS
WHAT TO DO NEXT
For any help with Employment claims or another Industrial Disease claim, get in touch today for a free initial consultation in complete confidence.
Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page, or call us on 0113 200 9720 to find out how we can help you.
Fiona Almazedi has been with Oakwood Solicitors for the last 10 years working as a consultant and taking up the position of Head of Employment on the 3rd January 2024.
Fiona has over 20 years of ex…
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