Stepping forward

Welcome to this month’s Frontline, from one of your newest members of council! 

I would barely have believed it this time last year if you had told me I would be part of the CSP’s Council. 

As I was looking for a new challenge – and wanted to be part of a body where I could contribute to, and influence, the CSP’s direction – I put myself forward. 

I want to ask you to consider nominating yourself as we come to the next round of council elections. Becoming part of council has been both exciting and nerve-wracking, but the existing council members have been so welcoming and I have learnt so much. 

Being part of council can be a great opportunity to develop your skills, be it networking, policy, finance, workforce challenges, leadership skills or decision making. I’ve grown my understanding about big-picture policy issues affecting members, too.

Talking of leadership, with International Women’s Day this month – and with this year’s theme #BreakTheBias – in this issue we spotlight women who are leading, achieving and campaigning.

In our cover feature this month Frontline talks with physiotherapist Preet Chandi, who successfully completed a 40-day solo expedition across Antarctica at the start of the year, and who is thought to be the first women of colour to complete the feat.

In her regular column, CSP chief executive Karen Middleton reflects on her experiences as a woman throughout her career journey. She recalls the challenges she has faced and talks about why we all need to speak up and speak out to achieve equality.

Looking at influencing, physiotherapy staff who are the forefront of shaping integrated care systems talk to Frontline in a feature which also explores what they mean for members; and in this month’s professional advice clinic Hannah Morley and Helen Harte look at menopause in the workplace. 

Please do get in touch if you are interested in running for council or want to discuss any other matters, you can contact me at patelr1@csp.org.uk. Nominations for council open on 21 March. Learn more.