The CSP Welcomes the Government’s new ‘Return to Work Scheme’
The purpose of the new scheme is to help make the ‘return to work’ process easier for physiotherapists and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs).
Image Source: Pixabay
However, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy has said that although this is an important matter for the government to address, it needs to be part of a wider drive to provide the NHS with the workforce it so desperately needs.
Responding to the government's announcement that it will fund placements for 300 AHPs, Natalie Beswetherick, director of practice and development at the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, stated: “Anything that removes some of the barriers that prevent physiotherapists returning to work is of course very welcome.” She goes on to say: “However, this measure must be part of a wider drive to deliver the workforce the NHS needs”.
She declared that their research has shown that in order to keep up with the current demand, “an extra 500 physios a year are required”. Therefore, although this scheme is extremely positive overall for the world of physiotherapists and AHPs, ensuring that there is also attention being paid to those looking to start their career, as well as on those looking to return, needs to be made a priority.