Supporting children with Juvenile Arthritis
For over 35 years, we have supported children, young people, and families across the UK affected by Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). We provide trusted information, practical guidance, and opportunities to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with JIA, helping families feel informed and less alone throughout their journey.
Has your child recently been diagnosed with JIA?
You are not alone. We understand how overwhelming and uncertain those early days can feel. We’re here to support and help you navigate life with JIA.
Harper, 10, Takes on a 12-Mile Challenge for CCAA Kids with Arthritis
We’re incredibly proud of 10-year-old Harper, who is taking on a 12-mile sponsored walk to raise £1,200 for CCAA Kids with Arthritis and help us continue supporting children and families affected by juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Harper’s motivation comes from close to home. His younger sister, Ruby, was diagnosed with JIA two years ago, and since then, our charity has been there to support Harper and his family through their journey.
But Harper’s challenge is about more than fundraising. With around 12,000 children and young people living with JIA in the UK, he also wants to help raise awareness of childhood arthritis and the challenges faced by children and their families.
We’re delighted that Harper’s family has become part of our wider CCAA community. Having experienced first-hand the difference our support can make, both of Harper’s parents now volunteer for the charity, helping us support other families navigating similar journeys. We know how much this challenge means to them, and we couldn’t be prouder of Harper for turning his family’s experience into something positive for others.
Harper has already received wonderful support from his local community, including his local MP, local newspapers and staff from the hospital where Ruby receives treatment. We’re so pleased to see people coming together to support his efforts and help spread awareness of JIA.

Help Harper Make Every Mile Count!
Harper is taking on this challenge to help us make a difference to the lives of children and families affected by childhood arthritis. If you’re able to, please consider donating towards his £1,200 fundraising target. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue our work supporting families affected by JIA.
You can also help by sharing Harper’s story and spreading the word about childhood arthritis. Together, we can help more families feel understood, supported and less alone.
Donate to Harper’s sponsored walk
A huge thank you to Harper and his family for their incredible support. We’re all cheering you on, Harper, and can’t wait to see you smash your challenge!
This Christmas, switch to e-cards and support CCAA,

We’ve teamed up with Don’t Send Me A Card so you can send festive e-cards to your family and friends while donating what you would have spent on Christmas cards and postage to CCAA.
Your donation will help us support children and families living with JIA, making a real difference to those who need it most. Check out our Percy Penguin CCAA e-cards!
CCAA Award Badges
Celebrate every achievement along the JIA journey. Our Badge Award Scheme helps recognise the efforts, resilience, and successes of children with JIA and their siblings every step of the way.
Family Support Weekends
Adventure, friendship, and support for the whole family. Children take part in fun, confidence-building activities while parents attend informative sessions led by healthcare professionals specialising in JIA.
Local Support Groups
Connect with families who understand. Find friendship, support, and shared experiences through our network of welcoming local groups across England and Wales.
Stay in touch
Follow us on social media for our latest news and updates.
What is JIA?
JIA (Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis) is a condition that starts when you are young (Juvenile), it has no known cause (Idiopathic) and it causes inflammation (swelling) in the joints. There can sometimes be inflammation in the eyes (Uveitis).
A small number of children also develop inflammation in other organs in the body and can experience fevers and rashes – this form of JIA is known as Systemic Onset JIA (SJIA).
JIA is an autoimmune condition – this means that the body’s immune system does not work as it should. The job of the immune system is to protect your body but in JIA, the immune system goes into over-drive.
Help us support more families living with JIA
We’re a volunteer-led charity, and everything we do is made possible by the generosity of our supporters. Donations and fundraising help us provide our Family Support Weekends, Badge Award Scheme, and other support services for children and families affected by JIA.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue making a difference.
