ESP MSK Physiotherapist in Peterlee

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County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) is at the forefront of implementing innovative musculoskeletal (MSK) care. We are committed to delivering evidence‑based practice pathways and GIRFT guidance, ensuring patients receive timely, high‑quality, and integrated care. Our service model includes digital self‑referral, advanced practitioner triage, a single point of access and innovative pathways such as the new \”Backs for the Future\” programme. This exciting opportunity places you at the heart of a service redesign that will improve patient outcomes, reduce unnecessary delays and ensure care is delivered right‑first‑time.

Main duties of the role

• Triage referrals as an Early Specialist Practitioner (ESP), assessing patients quickly and accurately to ensure right‑first‑time care.
• Work within our Single Point of Access (SPOA) model to manage patient flow across localities and reduce delays.
• Collaborate with the MSK MDT – including FCPs, surgeons, pain specialists and other clinicians – to manage complex cases, improve decision‑making and ensure integrated care.
• Request and interpret imaging (e.g., MRIs and X‑rays), ensuring urgent presentations receive rapid investigation and intervention.
• Support the development of innovative, efficient pathways.
• Promote consistent, high‑quality practice across MSK and pain services, reducing duplication, improving efficiency and embedding senior clinical governance.

Person Specification

Qualifications – Essential

• BSc Physiotherapy or equivalent diploma.
• Recognised relevant academic post‑qualification in MSK conditions to masters level.
• Continuing Professional Development diary with evidence of reflective practice, training and clinical experience.
• Injection therapy competence.
• Significant senior‑level experience in MSK physiotherapy.

Qualifications – Desirable

• Understanding of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, its culture, strategic direction and NHS standing.

Experience – Essential

• Comprehensive experience within musculoskeletal, neurology, and pain management core competencies.
• Evidence of ability to lead and improve clinical practice.

Experience – Desirable

• Experience of cognitive‑behavioural therapy and the biopsychosocial model of care.

Skills & Knowledge – Essential

• Up‑to‑date knowledge of professional practice.
• Evidence of comprehensive and up‑to‑date range of highly specialised clinical skills.
• Understanding of legal responsibilities within the profession.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present information clearly and logically.
• Organisational and prioritisation skills, able to work to 18‑RTT.
• Evidence of critical appraisal, research and evidence‑based practice.
• IT proficiency.
• Excellent presentation skills.

Skills & Knowledge – Desirable

• Innovative approach to working life.
• Able to use own initiative appropriately to enhance service delivery.
• Evidence of strategic planning for MSK services.

Special Requirements – Essential

• Ability to travel across Trust sites to meet the requirements of the post.

Statutory Registration – Essential

• HCPC registered.

Statutory Registration – Desirable

• Member of Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

Other Information

• Salary: £55,690 to £62,682 per annum (pro‑rata).
• Contract: Permanent, Full‑time.
• Location: Peterlee Hospital (O\’Neill Drive, Peterlee, County Durham, SR8 5UQ) and University Hospital of North Durham (North Road, Durham, DH1 5TW).
• Recruitment code: C9439-2526-1037.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

UK Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers requiring Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside other applications.

EEO Statement

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates.