First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP)

NHS

  • Hove, East Sussex
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 15 days ago
WellBN is looking for a First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) to work across our 3 practices within our local PCN.As an FCP you will provide First Contact Physiotherapy in musculoskeletal and related conditions with high level clinical assessment for diagnosis and triage of patients, inclusive of undifferentiated and complex patients that have not yet been seen or assessed by another health professional.A key part of the role is to reduce work load for other members of the primary care team such as GPs and Nursing StaffMain duties of the jobAs a First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP), youll be the first point of support for patients with musculoskeletal issues, helping them get the right care quickly.Youll assess, treat and guide patients in a holistic way, whether face to face, over the phone or online, and encourage self-management where possible.Working independently but as part of a wider team, youll make decisions about next steps, from early physiotherapy treatment to onward referral when needed.This is a varied, patient-focused role where no two days are the same, offering a mix of clinical autonomy, collaboration, and opportunities to keep developing your skills.About usWe are a diverse and innovative practice, formed following the merger of 3 healthcare centres in Brighton and Hove and the surrounding area.This partnership has allowed our teams to make share space, resources, knowledge and facilities, and offer more services.Our practice is committed to 'opening doors' for those who have previously found it difficult to access primary care services, with a particular focus on disadvantaged populations. We run specialist hormone clinics covering all aspects of women's and trans health, working closely with local groups. We also run outreach clinics for refugees.We have a vibrant and diverse team of over 100 colleagues. From healthcare assistants, pharmacy and reception teams to GPs and partners, we work Together - Putting people, community and creativity at the heart of healthcare.We take pride in our work and believe we make a difference to patients and practices.If you'd like to join a team that's as driven as they are kind, focused on a shared mission and values, we'd love to hear from you.DetailsDate posted20 August 2025Pay schemeOtherSalaryDepending on experienceContractPermanentWorking patternFull-time, Part-time, Flexible workingReference numberA3216-FCPJob locations18-19Western RoadHoveEast SussexBN3 1AEJob descriptionJob responsibilities1) To provide a First Contact Physiotherapy Service for the patients of Trinity Medical Centre who are a practice within Goldstone PCN2) To provide this service to patients with both acute and chronic symptoms that require initial assessment and management3) To provide early physiotherapy treatment and assessment in a holistic patient focused manner. Assessment will include requesting appropriate investigations.4) In addition to contribute to The Quality Outcomes Framework, Direct Enhanced Services and Impact And Investment Fund targets where appropriate.5) The role holder(s) will communicate clearly and effectively with the practice team (both clinical and non-clinical roles) and patients.6) Completion of high quality clinical notes and plans in the electronic patient records that can easily be understood and referenced by others.7) The post holder must work independently to manage cases within their clinical competency to include onward referral to suitable community and secondary care services within the scope of their practice.8) First Contact Physiotherapists should happy to consult via interpreters (in person and via phone).9) The post may include assessment of pregnant patients (in a First Contact Physiotherapy capacity)10) The First Contact Physiotherapy role will include a wide variety of patient interaction to include: Face To Face Consultation, Telephone Consultation and E-consultations.11) The position holder will seek to guide and encourage patient self-management where appropriate, share resources for this across the network and promote this with other FCP Colleagues within the Goldstone Primary care Network12) Use of a wide range of clinical skills (within current scope of experience) relevant to treatment and assessment of patients according to NICE guidelines. Examples may include (but are not limited to) physical examination, joint injections, guided exercise and suitable complimentary therapies.13) While independent working is required the post holder must also be happy to work collaboratively with other members of Goldstone Primary Care Network and broader MDT teams where appropriate.14) First Contact Physiotherapists must ensure they remain up to date with the latest clinical developments relevant to their scope of practice and must ensure they maintain all relevant competencies for practice.15) A willingness and flexibility to develop and refine the role over time is essential.16) The First Contact Physiotherapist will triage, see and manage patients within reasonable agreed timescales consistent with the activity levels required to meet patient demand within a General Practice setting. Job descriptionJob responsibilities1) To provide a First Contact Physiotherapy Service for the patients of Trinity Medical Centre who are a practice within Goldstone PCN2) To provide this service to patients with both acute and chronic symptoms that require initial assessment and management3) To provide early physiotherapy treatment and assessment in a holistic patient focused manner. Assessment will include requesting appropriate investigations.4) In addition to contribute to The Quality Outcomes Framework, Direct Enhanced Services and Impact And Investment Fund targets where appropriate.5) The role holder(s) will communicate clearly and effectively with the practice team (both clinical and non-clinical roles) and patients.6) Completion of high quality clinical notes and plans in the electronic patient records that can easily be understood and referenced by others.7) The post holder must work independently to manage cases within their clinical competency to include onward referral to suitable community and secondary care services within the scope of their practice.8) First Contact Physiotherapists should happy to consult via interpreters (in person and via phone).9) The post may include assessment of pregnant patients (in a First Contact Physiotherapy capacity)10) The First Contact Physiotherapy role will include a wide variety of patient interaction to include: Face To Face Consultation, Telephone Consultation and E-consultations.11) The position holder will seek to guide and encourage patient self-management where appropriate, share resources for this across the network and promote this with other FCP Colleagues within the Goldstone Primary care Network12) Use of a wide range of clinical skills (within current scope of experience) relevant to treatment and assessment of patients according to NICE guidelines. Examples may include (but are not limited to) physical examination, joint injections, guided exercise and suitable complimentary therapies.13) While independent working is required the post holder must also be happy to work collaboratively with other members of Goldstone Primary Care Network and broader MDT teams where appropriate.14) First Contact Physiotherapists must ensure they remain up to date with the latest clinical developments relevant to their scope of practice and must ensure they maintain all relevant competencies for practice.15) A willingness and flexibility to develop and refine the role over time is essential.16) The First Contact Physiotherapist will triage, see and manage patients within reasonable agreed timescales consistent with the activity levels required to meet patient demand within a General Practice setting.Person SpecificationQualificationsEssential
  • Qualifications and Experience
  • Essential
  • Completion of undergraduate degree in physiotherapy and registration with Health and Care Professions Council.
  • Practice portfolio demonstrating experience in core physiotherapy and MSK physiotherapy
  • General Physiotherapy Skills and Knowledge in core areas
  • Member of chartered society of physiotherapy
Desirable
  • Desirable
  • Working knowledge of General Practice
  • Broad MSK Physiotherapy experience and qualification
  • Prior First Contact MSK Physiotherapy work or equivalent
  • Independent prescriber Qualification or steps towards this
  • Further Post Graduate Physiotherapy Qualifications or Diplomas
ExperienceEssential
  • Ability to work independently within a Primary Care Network team.
  • A knowledge and understanding of General Practice that empowers the First Contact Physiotherapist to understand how to take on and reduce workload from other clinicians.
  • To organize and prioritize own work
  • Good communication and networking skills
  • Ability to problem solve variable situations and variables
  • Good IT skills
  • Understanding of the wider primary care health care and social aspects
  • Knowledge of local physiotherapy and MSK services and referral pathways
  • Enthusiastic and dynamic approach
  • Good communication that inspires trust and confidence
  • Good listening skills and empathic approach
  • High levels of motivation and professionalism
  • Good time keeping skills
  • Reliability
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Emotional resilience
  • Innovative approach
Person SpecificationQualificationsEssential
  • Qualifications and Experience
  • Essential
  • Completion of undergraduate degree in physiotherapy and registration with Health and Care Professions Council.
  • Practice portfolio demonstrating experience in core physiotherapy and MSK physiotherapy
  • General Physiotherapy Skills and Knowledge in core areas
  • Member of chartered society of physiotherapy
Desirable
  • Desirable
  • Working knowledge of General Practice
  • Broad MSK Physiotherapy experience and qualification
  • Prior First Contact MSK Physiotherapy work or equivalent
  • Independent prescriber Qualification or steps towards this
  • Further Post Graduate Physiotherapy Qualifications or Diplomas
ExperienceEssential
  • Ability to work independently within a Primary Care Network team.
  • A knowledge and understanding of General Practice that empowers the First Contact Physiotherapist to understand how to take on and reduce workload from other clinicians.
  • To organize and prioritize own work
  • Good communication and networking skills
  • Ability to problem solve variable situations and variables
  • Good IT skills
  • Understanding of the wider primary care health care and social aspects
  • Knowledge of local physiotherapy and MSK services and referral pathways
  • Enthusiastic and dynamic approach
  • Good communication that inspires trust and confidence
  • Good listening skills and empathic approach
  • High levels of motivation and professionalism
  • Good time keeping skills
  • Reliability
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Emotional resilience
  • Innovative approach

NHS