Senior musculoskeletal physiotherapist

Job Summary The post holder will work as a Band 6 Senior Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist within Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust, providing high-quality, patient-centred physiotherapy services across community and outpatient settings. The role involves working autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver effective assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including those with complex physical and psychological needs. The post holder will manage their own clinical caseload, undertaking advanced physiotherapeutic assessments and developing individualised, evidence-based treatment programmes. They will be responsible for clinical decision-making, formulation of treatment plans, and ongoing evaluation of patient progress, adapting interventions as required to achieve optimal outcomes. Key Responsibilities The post holder will independently assess, diagnose and treat patients referred from GPs, consultants and other healthcare professionals. This includes triaging referrals, identifying inappropriate referrals where necessary, and ensuring timely and appropriate care pathways. They will use advanced clinical reasoning and a range of treatment techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, education, electrotherapy and other evidence-based interventions. They will work in partnership with patients, families and carers to set realistic, patient-centred goals, taking into account individual needs, risks, and levels of independence. The role requires regular monitoring and evaluation of treatment effectiveness, with adjustments made to care plans where required. The post holder will also be responsible for providing accurate discharge summaries and maintaining clear and timely clinical records. Clinical Practice The role requires a high standard of safe and effective clinical practice, including the safe use of equipment and ensuring patients are trained in the correct use of any aids or appliances provided. The post holder will contribute to exercise classes and rehabilitation programmes, reviewing outcomes and adapting delivery as needed. Strong communication skills are essential to overcome potential barriers, including working with patients with complex needs, sensory impairments, or language differences. The post holder will demonstrate effective communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills to support patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. The post holder will also represent physiotherapy within the multidisciplinary team, contributing to collaborative care planning and ensuring integrated service delivery across community and secondary care services. Leadership and Supervision The post holder will support the supervision, teaching and development of junior physiotherapists, assistants and students. This includes providing clinical guidance, participating in appraisals, and contributing to induction and training programmes. They will take delegated responsibility for specific patient groups or service areas and will support senior staff in the ongoing development and delivery of physiotherapy services. The role also involves contributing to audits, service evaluation and quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and service effectiveness. Service Development and Governance The post holder will actively participate in clinical governance processes, including audit, risk management and quality improvement activities. They will ensure compliance with professional standards, Trust policies, and national guidelines, including HCPC and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy standards. They will contribute to service development, implementing changes to clinical practice where required, and supporting innovation within the service. Accurate data collection and reporting will be required to support performance monitoring and service evaluation. Professional Development The post holder will be responsible for maintaining their own continuing professional development (CPD), including participation in training, reflective practice and maintaining a professional portfolio. They will engage in regular supervision and appraisal processes, identifying learning needs and opportunities for development. They will also contribute to the education of others through in-service training and sharing of knowledge, ensuring that practice is informed by current evidence and research. General Responsibilities The post holder will demonstrate professionalism, reliability and effective time management, contributing positively to the reputation of the Trust and the physiotherapy profession. They will adhere to all policies relating to confidentiality, data protection, health and safety, infection control, safeguarding, equality and diversity. They will identify and manage risks appropriately, report incidents in line with Trust procedures, and ensure safe working practices at all times. The post holder will also support the Trusts values, promoting compassionate, inclusive, collaborative and high-quality care in all aspects of their role