The CSP has backed fresh warnings from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) that the UK risks raising one of the unhealthiest generations in decades unless urgent action is taken to improve children's health.
The RCPCH's latest 'State of Child Health' report highlights worsening outcomes across a range of measures, including obesity, mental health, asthma and health inequalities, and calls for sustained investment in children's services and the workforce.
The findings echo concerns the CSP has previously raised about growing pressures on children's physiotherapy and rehabilitation services, with workforce shortages and long waits limiting the care many children receive.
It also mirrors recent feedback from paediatric physiotherapists suggesting that increasing numbers of children are presenting with musculoskeletal problems, reduced physical activity and delayed access to rehabilitation.
The CSP has warned that failing to provide timely physiotherapy and rehabilitation risks creating avoidable health problems that continue into adulthood, placing greater pressure on the NHS, education, social care and the wider economy.
Sara Hazzard, CSP assistant director, said:
This report is a wake-up call. If we fail to act now, we risk creating a generation of young people whose education, employment opportunities and quality of life are limited by avoidable health conditions.
'Physiotherapists are seeing first-hand the consequences of children waiting too long for assessment and rehabilitation.
'Early intervention can prevent problems becoming lifelong conditions, help children to stay active, participate fully in school and enjoy healthier futures.
'Investment in the paediatric physiotherapy workforce is an investment in healthier adults and better opportunities for future generations.'
The CSP continues to call for investment in children's rehabilitation services, expansion of the physiotherapy workforce and improved access to early intervention, ensuring every child gets timely access to high-quality healthcare regardless of where they live or what they earn.
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