Versus Arthritis has changed its name to Arthritis UK and refreshed its image after a consultation found its previous name was “not easily understood and was a barrier to engagement”, according to its chief executive Debrorah Alsina.

It’s Versus Arthritis name had only been in place since 2018, following a merger between Arthritis Research UK and Arthritis Care. The charities had been supporting people with arthritis from 1947 and 1936 respectively.

The new identity for the charity, which had a total income of £31.7m according to its accounts for the year ending March 2024, was created by London agency The Clearing and includes a redesign on its advertising, campaigning and online presence.

The new name is in place from today.

“We’re excited to announce that Versus Arthritis has a new name – Arthritis UK – and a new look, which we hope will help us bring about greater impact for people living with arthritis all across the UK,” said Alsina.

“This wasn’t a decision taken lightly, it was carried out after a huge amount of research and consultation with people with arthritis and the wider arthritis community.

“This highlighted our name was not easily understood and was a barrier to engagement and that changing our name and brand would help us improve our visibility and influence so we can reach and help more people living with arthritis.

“The new clear name and identifier, designed to reflect a joint and socket, mean it is unmistakable what we do and who we’re here for.”

Alsina added: “Misconceptions still prevail around arthritis, that it only affects people in later life and is an inevitable part of ageing, which are not helpful.

“Arthritis does become more common with age, but it can affect people of all ages including children and it is in fact a complex set of long-term conditions that erode the quality of life of millions in the UK.

“Having a powerful and easily recognisable brand will enable us to do more to build our impact and reach, so that we can ensure people with arthritis are able to access the treatment and support they need to live well as we progress towards a cure.”

One in six people in the UK live with a form of arthritis, which s an umbrella term for conditions involving stuff and restricted joints.

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