In June 2016, LUPUS UK, Scleroderma & Raynaud’s UK (SRUK), Vasculitis UK and the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) came together to establish the Rare Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Alliance (RAIRDA). RAIRDA is an umbrella body for organisations with an interest in rare autoimmune rheumatic diseases. In 2017, Sjögren’s UK became an affiliate member, joining as a full member in 2018.
RAIRDA enables a united dialogue on areas of commonality (e.g. symptoms,
treatments, diagnostic pathways, unmet needs and challenges) whilst at the same time enabling specific condition-related outputs. For the first time, this alliance formally brings together a dedicated body linking both clinical and patient
organisations, as well as other key stakeholders, to improve care for people living with these conditions.
We exist to provide a single, strong voice that will raise the profile of this group of conditions, influence policy and guide future research.