Viewpoint: world view

Birgit Mueller-Winkler explains why World Physical Therapy Day 2014 matters.

You might think this is just another in the endless list of ‘international awareness’ days – haven’t we all in the past made fun of some of these, like World Toilet Day or International Coffee Day? So, what is so special about World Physical Therapy Day?

Most importantly for us, the CSP is one of the 106 member organisations recognised by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT), which is the sole global organisation representing 350,000 physiotherapists worldwide.

Each year on 8 September, physiotherapists all over the world celebrate the crucial contribution the profession makes to keeping people well, mobile and independent. This year’s World Physical Therapy Day strapline is ‘Fit to take part’.  The day focuses on the key role physiotherapists play in supporting people with long-term conditions and disability to participate fully in society.

WCPT has developed a free toolkit with a wealth of materials (such as leaflets, posters and stickers), and a resource booklet including evidence on the impact physiotherapy has on people with long-term conditions.  They can be downloaded here from the WCPT website. 

Why not join in celebrating physiotherapy around the globe this year by running a special event or activity, however big or small, on or around the 8 September

As part of this global physiotherapy family, the CSP will be honoured to host the next European Congress on physiotherapy education, with the title ‘Advancing Physiotherapy – Demonstrating Value and Impact’.

The event will be held in Liverpool from 11 to 12 November 2016 and will be a great opportunity for physiotherapists from the UK, Europe and beyond to share knowledge on the difference physiotherapy makes in a world of changing population needs.

Save the date, and find more information here.

Author
Birgit Mueller-Winkler, CSP professional adviser for international development

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