New osteoporosis peer support programme to launch thanks to National Lottery funding

New support services for people living with osteoporosis and fractures are to be launched by the ROS thanks to £344,836 awarded by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK.

The three-year grant will mean the ROS is able to expand its existing support services, which are all developed with those with lived experience. These services aim to reduce isolation and empower people to manage their health. By piloting new types of peer support, the charity aims to reach even more people who need help to live well with osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis Connect will offer peer-to-peer support to anyone living with the condition, providing a platform to share information, experience and give reassurance, no matter where they live. Support will be available in person and online, making it accessible for people with limited mobility, time and/or without a local support group.

Osteoporosis affects over 3.5 million people in the UK and causes more than 500,000 broken bones every year. The condition causes bones to become weak and fragile, which can lead to pain, loss of independence and isolation. The ROS is the largest national charity driving the research and development of new treatments, to beat osteoporosis.

Rose Stone, Head of Information and Support Services at the ROS, said:

“We’re delighted to receive this funding from The National Lottery Community Fund. Peer support can have a hugely positive impact on people living with long-term health conditions like osteoporosis.

“Osteoporosis Connect will allow many more people to connect with others, share experiences and feel less alone in managing their condition.”

Claire Jopling, Head of Central Funding at The National Lottery Community Fund, said:

“Thanks to National Lottery players, this project will provide vital peer support for people living with osteoporosis, helping to reduce isolation and build confidence in self-managing their condition. By bringing communities together, Osteoporosis Connect will enable thousands of people to live healthier lives.”

Find out more about our support services here