ESP MSK Physiotherapist

NHS; Peterlee; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in England is seeking an ESP MSK Physiotherapist to deliver high-quality care across County Durham and Darlington. The role involves triaging referrals, managing patient journeys, and collaborating with an MSK multidisciplinary team. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in MSK physiotherapy and be HCPC registered, with a salary range of £55,690 to £62,682 per annum.

Qualifications

• Significant experience at a senior level in MSK physiotherapy.
• Injection therapy competent.
• Comprehensive experience including core competencies within musculoskeletal, neurology, pain management.

Responsibilities

• Triage referrals as an ESP, assessing patients quickly and accurately.
• Work within our Single Point of Access model, managing patient flow.
• Request and interpret imaging such as MRIs and X-rays.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Ability to organise and prioritise

Evidence of strategic planning for MSK services

Up-to-date knowledge of professional practice

Innovative approach to working life

Education

BSc Physiotherapy or equivalent diploma

Recognised relevant academic post-qualification in relation to MSK conditions to masters level

HCPC registered

Member of Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)

Job description

ESP MSK Physiotherapist

The closing date is 02 December 2025

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) is at the forefront of implementing innovative MSK care. We are committed to delivering evidence‑based practice pathways and GIRFT guidance, ensuring patients receive timely, high‑quality, and integrated care. Our service model includes digital self‑referral, advanced practitioner triage, a single point of access and innovative pathways such as our new Backs for the Future programme, and strengthening access to imaging, diagnostics and work‑focused interventions.

Main duties of the job

In this role you will be at the heart of delivering high‑quality MSK care for patients across County Durham and Darlington. You will triage referrals as an ESP, ensuring patients are seen in line with evidence‑based pathways, manage patient journeys through our Single Point of Access, liaise with the wider MSK MDT, request and interpret imaging, fast‑track urgent presentations and support innovative pathways. This is a chance to shape patient care, reduce delays and make a real difference within an integrated, forward‑looking MSK service.

Job responsibilities

• Triage referrals as an ESP, assessing patients quickly and accurately to ensure right‑first‑time care.
• Work within our Single Point of Access model, managing patient flow across localities and reducing unnecessary delays in care.
• Collaborate with the MSK MDTs, including FCPs, surgeons, pain specialists and other clinicians to manage complex cases, improve decision‑making and ensure integrated care across services.
• Request and interpret imaging such as MRIs and X‑rays, using diagnostics appropriately and ensuring urgent presentations receive rapid investigation and intervention.
• Promote consistent, high‑quality practice across MSK and pain services, reducing duplication, improving efficiency and embedding senior clinical governance.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• BSc Physiotherapy or equivalent diploma
• Recognised relevant academic post‑qualification in relation to MSK conditions to masters level
• Continuing Professional Development Diary including evidence of reflective practice, training and clinical experience
• Injection therapy competent
• Significant experience at a senior level in MSK physiotherapy
• Understanding of County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, its culture, strategic direction, achievements and NHS standing

Special Requirements

• Able to travel across Trust sites to meet the requirements of the post

Statutory Registration

• HCPC registered
• Member of Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)

Experience

• Comprehensive experience including core competencies within musculoskeletal, neurology, pain management
• Evidence of being able to lead and improve clinical practice
• Experience of cognitive behavioural therapy and biopsychosocial model of care

Special Skills & Knowledge

• Up‑to‑date knowledge of professional practice
• Evidence of comprehensive and up‑to‑date range of highly specialised clinical skills
• Understanding of legal responsibilities within the profession
• Able to present information, written and orally, in a clear and logical manner
• Ability to organise and prioritise and work to 18 RTT
• Evidence of critical appraisal in research and evidence‑based practice
• Maintains high levels of concentration and analysis of presenting symptoms from patients
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Excellent presentation skills
• Innovative approach to working life
• Uses own initiative appropriately to enhance service delivery
• Evidence of strategic planning for MSK services

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

£55,690 to £62,682 per annum, pro rata