The British London 10K Run

The 12th anniversary of the British London 10k run is scheduled to take place on Sunday 8th July just 19 days before the Olympic opening ceremony and using much of the course for the Olympic marathons.

FMA UK has places available in this prestigious event, giving an exciting opportunity to raise awareness of fibromyalgia as well as raising funds through sponsorship.

Last year I decided to give this a go. I had never done any long distance running before so didn't commit to this until I knew I could manage it. I downloaded a training programme from the Running Bug which worked really well. I surprised myself and increased my fitness considerably.

I now enjoy jogging (I wouldn't call my speed running) and am thinking about a half marathon for this year.

Read more: The British London 10K Run

FMA UK Newsletter Winter 2011

Welcome to the winter newsletter from the trustees of FMA UK. A PDF version of the original Winter Newsletter can be found here. Our Trustee newsletters attempt to bring a view of what the trustees have been engaged in since the previous newsletter. We are the first to admit that these newsletters are not as frequent as we would like but we will try to keep you all as informed as we can.

This newsletter covers the past 6 months and also gives an insight into some of the activities that we have planned for the coming year. We hope to have an exciting, busy and eventful year ahead of us. We also hope to engage with more people and have more volunteers helping out with the charity. We can only achieve our goals if we have the people to share the work.

Of course if anyone has any questions or something to help the charity then please do get in touch with a Trustee or Regional Coordinator.

Many thanks
Board of Trustees

Read more: FMA UK Newsletter Winter 2011

"Huge ESA victory – now you have till Tuesday to save DLA"

Benefits and Works have asked for your help to participate in saving DLA. There is a vote on Tuesday in parliament and you can contact your MP, sign petitions and retweet messages of support about the campaign. See the link below for the full newsletter.

"It’s not often we get to celebrate here at Benefits and Work.  So there has been enormous delight at the government suffering three – or possibly two - unexpected defeats in succession in the House of Lords over welfare reform

But if you want real joy, then please take part in the fight to save DLA.  It really is possible - but only if you act before Tuesday’s vote.  Please help to nail the latest government lie that you’re actually in favour of axing DLA."

Benefits and Works 12th January Newsletter

Are you Spartacus? Support the #spartacusreport

FMA UK welcomes the report published earlier this week about the changes to DLA proposed by the government. The “Responsible Reform” report was written and funded independently by a group of disabled people. It looks at many of the arguments offered by the government for their reforms.

It shows that much of the rise in DLA claimants over recent years has been down to better access to the benefit for those whose needs are often fluctuating and invisible. The report warns that the new PIP benefit may result in those with mental health and ‘hidden’ difficulties losing out as they are amongst the ones who often receive the lowest rates of DLA.

90% of respondents to consultations on the governments reforms were opposed to the introduction of new face to face assessments. The report reveals that reasons given included the fact that they are inappropriate and stressful for anyone who has communication difficulties or an 'invisible' condition such as fibromyalgia.

Read more: Are you Spartacus? Support the #spartacusreport