Comment: Still campaigning

So, we have a new, majority government in Westminster. And the UK’s political landscape is looking very different from this time last year. What will it all mean to physio services and physiotherapy staff? And to your patients?

 

The CSP will continue to campaign on your behalf with the four key messages used in the lead up to the election: fair pay; fewer falls; better rehab and more self-referral – and much more besides.

 

But our remit won’t be easy. And there are some battles we can’t take on.

 

The backdrop, a predicted £30bn funding gap by 2020 in England and government plans to cut local council budgets by a third, don’t bode well – either for members’ pay or for patient services. The Conservatives have indicated they will use the Pay Review Body process they shunned. But unsocial hours pay for those in the NHS, and a raft of other employment rights – including limits on trades union activities – look set to be hit. 

 

We also know that the new government wants to see seven-day week GP and hospital provision and more integrated health and social care.

 

As the impact of the Scottish National party on Westminster emerges, the CSP will continue to engage the main parties. 

 

At local level, we’ll be supporting members to play their part – by showing how you can transform lives, maximise independence and empower populations.