Roles in CAMHS
Physiotherapist
About the role...
A physiotherapist helps with movement, to restore movement when a child is affected by injury, illness or disability and can reduce the risk of injury in the future. Problems with neuromuscular development include developmental co-ordination disorder and dyspraxia. These children have more difficulty adapting their behaviour appropriately and thus may have difficulties with academic learning.
Fortunately, the brain has the capacity to re-route connections through physiotherapy. Children with pervasive developmental conditions such as cerebral palsy may need a physiotherapist to support themselves in sitting, standing or walking. You will work with people on a daily basis, recommending exercise, and using high-tech equipment or even hydrotherapy pools, depending on your patients’ needs. You may work alone, or as part of a team, and you will have plenty of choice when it comes to places to work.
In the NHS, you're needed in nearly every hospital department such as outpatients, women’s health, paediatrics and occupational health. Physiotherapy is also provided in the local community, so you could be based in health centres or treat patients in their own homes, day centres, or schools. Once you have qualified, you will have annual Continuing Professional Development (CPD) check-ins, where we will discuss your career aspirations and plan how we can help you to achieve them, so you are always moving forward. You will also be encouraged to join the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy where you’ll be able to continually update your skills and training.
What qualifications do I need?
A university degree is the most popular way to become a physiotherapist. A full-time degree can take three years and a part-time course will take six years. A two-year accelerated Masters course is also an option if you already have a relevant degree. Once you’ve successfully completed your degree you’ll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council before you can start practising. The other option is to apply for a degree apprenticeship which you can find in Zone F.
Requirements for an undergraduate course are typically two or three A levels, including a biological science and/or PE and five GCSEs including English language, maths and at least one science or the equivalent qualifications such as a BTEC, HND or HNC, including biological science, a relevant T level, a relevant NVQ, a science-based access course, equivalent Scottish or Irish qualifications or a previous degree or a full practicing qualification in a related area.
What experience do I need to bring?
It is also a good idea to spend some time with a registered psychotherapist and whichever route you take, you will also need to be a good communicator who can be hands-on and explain conditions and treatments easily to clients. Having a caring and calm nature is equally important. Physiotherapy can be physically and mentally strenuous so you should also be physically fit with strong organisational and planning skills too.