Simple ways to raise your profile

Have you thought about the value of awards? Maybe just within your organisation, or something bigger? My managers do this regularly. Paula Deacon and Denise Softley, clinical lead physiotherapists, are scanning Frontline, the CSP website and social media for future awards. Why? Because awards are opportunities to raise the profile of physiotherapy.

As for me, after 15 years I am a Band 4 assistant. In 2016, as part of this role, I set up and launched the Osteoarthritis Self-Management and Independent Living Support Group, known as Oasis. 

This April, I had some fantastic recognition for Oasis when I won an NHS Employers’ award at the national Advancing Healthcare awards. And, yes, my managers had nominated me. 

Last autumn, I was equally delighted to win an international award for implementing clinical guidelines in Oasis. I had been nominated by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. 

I believe that both accolades have increased awareness of the role of physiotherapy assistant practitioners. Awards are a way to share excellence and, on a personal level, they are good for your CV.

Meanwhile, I am a part-time student on Birmingham University’s Level 5 assistant practitioner apprenticeship. This is a great way 
to develop knowledge and skills to work at a higher level. At the end of the programme, I will have a foundation degree. 

My message to my fellow assistant practitioners is look out for opportunities – education and awards included. It’s important to shout about the work we do. We’re not just tea makers. We’re an integral part of the team. 

Apprenticeship pathways

• Emma Busby is a physiotherapy assistant practitioner in the integrated physiotherapy, orthopaedic and pain management service at Samuel Johnson Hospital, Lichfield