Specialist Physiotherapist (Paeds) in Salisbury

To provide physiotherapy and FES to neurological patients, predominantly paediatrics, but also adults, who have conditions including CP, stroke, MS, SCI, TBI, HSP and other upper motoneuron conditions under the care of the National Clinical FES Centre outpatient service. The service provides Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) for clients with neurological impairment and includes the application of FES to assist walking and upper limb function as well as other specialist applications. Clients are primarily NHS funded with some privately funded patients.

Working with the Specialist Physio Lead and Clinical Director, the successful candidate will develop and expand the paediatric FES service and promote the use of FES in paediatrics across the UK. There will also be opportunities to expand the evidence base for FES.

To deliver training and mentorship to FES clinicians through OML FES accreditation courses; conferences and exhibitions. To be an advocate for FES as a valuable adjunct in the management of children and young people with neurological conditions to optimise wellbeing, independence and quality of life. To assist with the development and assessment of new FES techniques and bring them to the paediatric clinical service. To participate in ongoing research projects of OML.

Main duties of the job include:

• Assessing and treating a caseload of FES patients and maintaining associated records as an autonomous practitioner.
• Being professionally and legally responsible for all aspects of own work including managing clinical risk.
• Delivering clinical support to clinicians using FES in external clinics/hospitals.
• Completing Individual Funding Request forms which assist in gaining funding for patients appropriate for FES.
• Conducting applied research to create case studies and evidence to support FES treatment of paediatrics using OML devices & equipment.
• Managing potentially stressful, upsetting or emotional situations in an empathetic manner.

Education and mentorship responsibilities include:

• Supporting the OML FES accreditation programme which delivers courses to health professionals.
• Providing mentorship and support to FES clinicians.
• Offering advice and education to healthcare professionals at exhibitions and conferences.
• Participating in and contributing to clinical governance sessions.

Service Development involves working with the Specialist Physio Lead and Clinical Director to develop and expand the paediatric FES service offered by OML.

Research and new product development tasks include collecting clinical outcome data and identifying clinical requirements for new product development projects.

Qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience required:

• HCPC registered and a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
• At least 2 years experience post-graduation.
• Experience in treating children and adults with neurological conditions.
• Evidence of CPD in neurological conditions.
• A current valid driving licence.

Personal attributes include a keen interest in the application of FES in rehabilitation, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Working conditions require the ability to assist neurologically impaired patients in therapy and to attend conferences, exhibitions and training courses across the UK.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service.