NHS invited MSK Community Day (Shaw Trust, DWP)

Nnif75

I just wanted to share something that I experienced today.

Background
I have had multiple joint pain for 10 years and was (finally) diagnosed with hypermobility spectrum disorder in 2023. After a couple of falls in 2024, I saw a neurologist who after tests referred me back to rheumatology. Until now, it has mainly been my legs and back that has been affected, but for the last 6 months I am having increasing difficulty using my hands.

My GP referred me for physio to address the increasing pain & difficulty that I have with hands.

I received a call from Physio letting me know that the waiting list was long and inviting me to a Musculoskeletal (MSK) Community Day. It was sold to me as a chance to see a physio and be given some exercise whilst I waited on the list.

Today’s Experience

I turned up to the MSK Community Day and was immediately given form to fill in (which I needed help with as my hands were hurting). It was during this help that I began to see that what I had been led to believe about day may not have been 100% accurate. In the explanation of the day it was mentioned that numerous agencies had stalls set up there… One being the DWP.

I saw a physio (who was very helpful) and she made a referral for specific hand therapy and also advised that social services should arrange an occupational therapist to help me cope with day-to-day functionality.

Although, I had been told that social services were present, they were not. I was then directed to a representative from The Shaw Trust. It was at this stage that I became very suspicious. Her whole aim seemed to be to enrol me into a course aimed at getting me back to work. I was told that the Shaw Trust could pay for private occupational therapy and well-being support. I was offered the MSK Trailblazer course (which I declined) then another course.

I find it very strange that an event that was purported to be about helping me with a specific condition seemed to be a drive mainly focused on getting me back into work.

Has anyone else experienced this? I’m based in the West London area. Is this happening nationally or is it only in my region

MW123

@Nnif75

Firstly, welcome to the community, and thank you for sharing your experience so openly. I haven’t been through anything quite like this myself, but I’ve read about the Shaw Trust and how they sometimes offer funding for therapy or support services, often with a strong focus on employment readiness.

It’s really disappointing to hear how the day played out, especially considering what you were told beforehand, that it would be a chance to see a physio and get some support while on the waiting list. Instead, you found yourself having to fill out forms with painful hands and being guided toward work-related programs, which clearly wasn’t what you needed or expected.

I’m really glad the physio was helpful and made referrals to occupational therapy that’s at least one positive outcome. But I completely understand why you felt suspicious and frustrated. Events like this should be upfront about their purpose and centered on your actual health needs, not hidden agendas.