CSP responds to NHS staff survey

Physios have a key role to play in maintaining occupational health

Responding to the 2015 NHS Staff Survey, Karen Middleton, chief executive of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, said:

‘A healthy workforce is essential to delivering high quality patient care. That is why we welcome efforts being made by NHS England to test and introduce measures which boost staff health and wellbeing.

‘However, this year’s NHS Staff Survey highlights a number of areas where more progress needs to be made. For example, a quarter (25%) of staff reported experiencing musculoskeletal problems as a result of work activities – this went up to 42% amongst those staff in ambulance trusts. In addition, over a third (37%) of all staff reported feeling unwell due to work related stress and pressure.

‘Addressing these issues requires local and national leadership, investment in staff health and a recognition that tight budgets and inadequate staffing levels all have a real impact on the wellbeing of those who work in the NHS.

‘Physiotherapists have a key role to play by providing early care and treatment to those experiencing common concerns, such as neck and back pain. We would like to see the option of self-referral to physiotherapy available to staff across the NHS.

‘Ultimately, improving the health and wellbeing of the workforce is in the best interests of NHS finances, professionals and patients.’

ENDS

Note to editors

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1. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy is the UK’s professional, educational and trade union body. We have more than 54,000 members, including chartered physiotherapists, physiotherapy students and support workers.