Paediatric physios call out lack of action on ‘catastrophic’ waiting times

Last year the CSP and the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists (APCP) raised the alarm that long waits are causing irreversible harm to children. A survey of APCP members revealed that 94 per cent of paediatric physiotherapists were concerned about their patients accessing the rehab treatment they need.   

According to NHS Community waiting times data for England, more than 17,000 children and young people are currently waiting for physiotherapy services.  

APCP member, Penny Walsh, said: ‘Children and families should not bear the consequences of delayed or inadequate action.

'Paediatric physiotherapy plays a vital role in supporting developmental progress, participation, and long‑term health outcomes for babies, children, and young people. Timely access to skilled physiotherapy can be life‑changing - and delays can have lasting consequences.'

Investment in children’s physiotherapy is not optional. It is fundamental to the effective functioning of public services and to the commitments made to Parliament. 

Words of support must now be matched by urgent, tangible action to ensure families receive the high‑quality, timely physiotherapy care they need - when it matters most.

The CSP Press & PR Team are looking for CSP members to share their experiences of families being impacted by waiting times. These can be anonymous and anecdotal.