Involving people with arthritis

Our approach to research involvement ensures that everything we do is valuable to our researchers, the charity, and above all, to people with arthritis.

Our research involvement

Learn more about how we put people with arthritis at the heart of everything we do.

Our patient insight partners

Find out what our patient insight partners do and how you can get involved.

Involvement resources for researchers

Read more on the resources to help involve people within arthritis in your work.

Research involvement news

Find out about the latest news from our research involvement team and upcoming events.

Involvement opportunities

Find out how you can take part in our current research.

Who am I and what can I do?

I’m the Arthritis Virtual Assistant (AVA) and I’m being trained by Versus Arthritis to give you general information about your condition and how to manage your symptoms. I can suggest exercises and tell you about medication.

How do I work?

I’ve been built using artificial intelligence powered by IBM Watson, and I learn and improve through every conversation. Whenever you use me, you’re indirectly helping another person get the answers they need.

What can you ask?

I respond best to clear, simple questions about one type of arthritis. For example, "What are the best exercises for osteoarthritis?" or "What are the side-effects of methotrexate?"

What if I want to speak to a real person?

If you need help from a real person here at Versus Arthritis, you can call our free helpline on 0800 5200 520.

Are you sure you want to close your conversation?

Your conversation will not be visible the next time you visit the Arthritis Virtual Assistant. If you want to keep a copy of the advice you've been given, you can print it using the button at the top of the chat window.

How would you rate your experience so far?

5 4 3 2 1

If you would like to share any additional feedback with us, please email supportercare@versusarthritis.org

Arthritis Virtual Assistant

Use our Arthritis Virtual Assistant (AVA) to get quick answers to your questions about living with arthritis.

The AVA provides general information. If you need more information or have any concerns, speak to a healthcare professional.

The AVA is intended for UK users. Medical practice may differ in different regions, so please seek local advice instead of using the AVA if you’re not in the UK.

By using the AVA, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of use and consent to how we’ll use the information you provide.

See full terms

CALL OUR HELPLINE 0800 5200 520

Call us for free help and advice on your type of arthritis, calls are recorded for quality purposes. For more information visit Get Help

October 17th, 7:02 pm