Research

The need for research in physiotherapy to provide the knowledge base for practice has long been acknowledged. Since 1980 there has been a significant increase in research activity and the development of a cadre of researchers. The Society does not expect all physiotherapists to be engaged in undertaking research however: the expectation is that research will be carried out by a few, facilitated by others and implemented by all.

Research Assessment Exercise (RAE)

The RAE is operated by the Higher Education Funding Councils (HEFC). See table below for details.

It provides a mechanism for assessing the research outputs of Higher Education Institutions, which is then used to allocate funding.

Research Forum for Allied Health Professions

A position statement on R&D in the three therapy professions - Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy was published in 1994. The Joint Therapies Research Group (JTRG) was established in 1995 as a forum to pursue this R&D policy agenda, on behalf of the three professional bodies and in conjunction with their respective R&D committees. This Group has now evolved into the Research Forum for Allied Health Professions (RFAHP), which was established in 2000.

National Physiotherapy Research Network

A new grass roots organisation, the National Physiotherapy Research Network (NPRN), was launched in June 2005 with the purpose of supporting research development and its implementation into practice. Whether you are a new or experienced researcher, or just interested in finding out more, visit our NPRN page.