PhysioUpdate News 10th December 2024

Investing in potential - the unmet gaps in physiotherapy apprenticeships

With days left for readers to contribute to a national survey that will influence future developments in physiotherapy apprenticeships, Olubukola Ireo, a physiotherapist and AHP apprentice and advanced clinical practice lead, sets out her views on this controversial area.

In an exclusive PhysioUpdate opinion article, she argues that too many apprentices are not currently being supported properly in the workplace and on placement and that improvements in mentorship, funding and collaboration are vital. 

It’s no surprise that the NHS is facing a physiotherapist shortage as demand for physiotherapy services rises due to an ageing population and an increase in disability from musculoskeletal disorders.

At the same time, the physiotherapy workforce faces significant challenges, such as a lack of physiotherapy positions to meet demand and a high turnover of physiotherapy staff. To address these workforce shortages and develop long-term staffing solutions, the NHS has been encouraged to grow its workforce, with apprenticeships playing an important role. 

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Hard work pays off for senior physio Zoe Styles and colleagues as service gains RCP accreditation

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Leading respiratory physios contribute to BTS Model of Care for Complex Home Mechanical Ventilation

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