MS Society Frustrated Over Unemployed Physios, UK

Main Category: Public Health
Also Included In: Multiple Sclerosis
Article Date: 19 Jul 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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The MS Society has condemned news that 1,500 recently qualified physiotherapists are unable to find permanent work - despite huge demand for specialist physiotherapy services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Chief executive Simon Gillespie said: "There is clear evidence that specialist physiotherapy can help people with MS manage their symptoms more effectively. This kind of care can tackle mobility problems and spasticity, with the added benefit of reducing the stress and depression that loss of mobility can cause.

"This means people living with MS can stay happier and healthier, keep their independence, and possibly remain in employment for longer.

"Our members are crying out for access to specialist physiotherapists and it's a terrible shame that 1,500 skilled professionals are unable to find work when there is such a strong demand."

The chair of the MS Society's Newmarket branch, Penelope McCalmont, said: "We had access to a neurological physiotherapist until last October and she was a fantastic source of support, treatment and information for people affected by MS. While we're trying to get our health trust to provide a replacement, we are having to use charitable funds to help some of our more severely affected members."

Penelope called on the NHS to do more to support people with MS.

"It is vital that the NHS provides properly trained neurological physiotherapists to people with MS. There is a clear need for them and the benefit they can deliver is superb," she said.

Simon Gillespie called on unemployed physiotherapists to contact the MS Society's servicedevelopment@mssociety.org.uk to find out about the specialist training and development on offer.

"As well as funded posts, we have lots of volunteering opportunities for physiotherapists," he explained. "In return, we offer professional support and development, and valuable specialist experience."

The Society invests £180,000 in neurological physiotherapy through its National Centre, including funding six MS specialist physiotherapists, and the majority of its 300-plus volunteer branches work with physiotherapists locally. The Society is also funding further research into the benefits physiotherapy can deliver for people with MS.

You can find out more information about the MS Society's physiotherapy programme, or email the servicedevelopment@mssociety.org.uk .

http://www.mssociety.org.uk/

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