P052 Bridging the gap co-designing menopause support for women with rheumatoid arthritis

Background/Aims In 2024, the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) participated in a research study, Sharon Petford et al., that revealed a significant gap in care: 93% of respondents reported that menopause was never discussed in the context of their rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This highlighted a critical need for targeted support and education for women experiencing both RA and menopause. In response, NRAS initiated a workstream to explore how best to address this unmet need through patient-led resource development and collaborative initiatives. This highlighted a critical need for targeted support, education and medical intervention where needed for women experiencing RA and the different stages of menopause. Methods In June 2025, NRAS convened a diverse and well-attended focus group of women with RA to gather insights and ideas to co-design a new information resource. The group explored lived experiences, unmet needs, and ideas for support. Feedback from this session informed the development of a dedicated patient booklet designed to provide content to get the conversation started with their clinical team. In parallel, NRAS engaged with clinicians, researchers, and service users to form a multidisciplinary coalition to guide this and further work. Results Three key initiatives emerged from this workstream: 1. Menopause booklet - a tailored resource designed to provide accessible information and support for women with RA experiencing all stages of menopause. 2. JoinTogether online support group - a peer-led space launching in late 2025, coordinated by a trained, volunteer formerly, Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with more than 30 years practice, to offer emotional support and shared experiences in a safe environment. 3. Coalition for Menopause - a steering group comprising rheumatologists, menopause specialists, GPs, pharmacists, nurses, researchers, and service users. This coalition will guide resource development and generate ideas for research, education, and service improvement. Additionally, an NRAS Live educational event is planned for November 2025, featuring Dr Vikram Talaulikar, to provide foundational menopause education to service users. This event will precede NRAS’s participation in the British Menopause Society Women’s Health Symposium, where Consultant Rheumatologist Dr Elena Nikiphorou, at NRAS invitation, will help raise awareness among menopause specialists about RA. Conclusion This workstream demonstrates the power of patient-led innovation and cross-sector collaboration in addressing overlooked aspects of chronic disease management. By positioning lived experience and fostering dialogue between patients and professionals, NRAS is working to improve quality of life, clinical awareness, and support for women with RA navigating menopause. The menopause booklet and JoinTogether group are on track for launch by the end of 2025, marking a significant step forward in holistic care. Disclosure D. Stenson: None. A. Bosworth: None. V. Butler: None.