Musculoskeletal Therapy Assistant Practitioner

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy Assistant to join our MSK outpatient physiotherapy service.

This Band 4 position requires an individual with an existing foundation of knowledge and practical experience in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, exercise delivery and patient mobility. The successful candidate will be expected to work with a significant degree of independence, applying their existing knowledge and skills to support patients through rehabilitation.

Applicants must have relevant experience in either physiotherapy, rehabilitation, therapy assistant or suitable exercise-based role, with a working understanding of the musculoskeletal system and how common MSK conditions affect movement, function and exercise tolerance.

The role involves independently assessing patients' suitability for walking aids, supporting safe mobility, and progressing or regressing prescribed exercise programmes in response to patients' abilities and presentation. It also includes delivering group exercise classes and supporting patients to achieve their rehabilitation goals.

General healthcare or care experience without relevant rehabilitation, exercise or therapy experience will not, on its own, meet the requirements of this post.

Please note that this is a Band 4 support role rather than a qualified physiotherapist position. We are seeking applicants who are genuinely interested in working within this role, + Relevant experience working in a physiotherapy, rehabilitation, therapy assistant or exercise-based role.
+ A working knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and common musculoskeletal conditions, injuries and their impact on function and mobility.
+ Previous practical experience supporting and delivering exercise or rehabilitation programmes, including adapting exercises according to an individual's ability and response.
+ Experience supporting patients with mobility and functional activities, with an understanding of walking aids and safe mobilisation.
+ Ability to work independently within the scope of the role, using clinical instructions, established protocols and own judgement appropriately, and recognising when advice or escalation is required.
+ Understanding of patient safety, risk assessment and the importance of working within professional boundaries and competence.
Desirable
+ Previous experience in an MSK outpatient physiotherapy service.
+ Experience independently assessing patients' suitability for walking aids and providing appropriate instruction in their use.
+ Experience progressing and regressing prescribed exercise programmes according to patient presentation, ability and response.
+ Experience delivering group rehabilitation or exercise classes.
+ Experience working within the NHS or a similar clinical setting."

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust is an integrated Trust and the only provider of NHS acute care in Walsall, serving a population of 284,300. It provides inpatient and outpatient services at the Manor Hospital as well as a wide range of services in the community. Walsall Manor houses the full range of district general hospital services under one roof. The £170 million development was completed in 2010, and ongoing upgrades ensure the Trust now has state-of-the-art facilities, including a Critical Care Unit, Neonatal Unit, Obstetric Theatre, and Integrated Assessment Unit. A new Urgent and Emergency Care Centre, opened in March 2023, has significantly improved emergency care facilities and capacity, providing almost 5,000 square metres of additional clinical space.