Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance

The PAA was founded by David and Julie Chandler in 1993, as an organisation specifically for people with psoriatic arthritis. David, who has both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, was forced to retire from commercial business at the age of 36 through ill-health caused by the conditions.

David and Julie soon discovered that the amount of information and knowledge regarding the disease was minimal, and it was Julie, David’s wife, who decided that she could best help David by forming an active group of fellow sufferers to provide much-needed help and support to her husband and also those in a similar situation.

The PAA, although primarily set up for psoriatic arthropathy, moved into psoriasis as a consequence of demand by its members. It quickly became well established and respected amongst the medical profession and patients.

The PAA was supported by a team of unpaid volunteers, to help people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The team included clinical specialists from the fields of dermatology, rheumatology, immunology, physiotherapy, nursing, scientific and pharmaceutical experts, together with input from the world of business and public relations.

Its main activity was an education and information programme, which included the Skin ‘n’ Bones Connection journal, Psoriatic Care Fact File, various information leaflets and booklets. Eleven national and two regional conferences were held over a ten-year period, with internationally recognized speakers providing educational talks to both those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and the healthcare providers who support them.