First Contact Physiotherapist

NHS Jobs; Middlewich; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

NHS Jobs is seeking an MSK clinician in Middlewich to independently assess and manage MSK presentations, including complex cases. You will request investigations, referrals, and create tailored self-management plans to support recovery.

Work within a GP-based MDT, educate colleagues on MSK pathways, and contribute to governance and service improvement. Prior MSK experience is valued and patient-centred care is essential.

Qualifications

• Must work well in a GP team across MDT.
• Ability to provide patient-centred care.
• Strong clinical judgment and problem-solving.
• Experience with MSK pathways and behavioural support.

Responsibilities

• Independently assess MSK presentations, including complex cases.
• Request investigations and referrals as needed.
• Develop self-management plans to support recovery.
• Contribute to MSK care pathway development and governance.

Skills

Collaborative approach

Relationship building

Excellent communication

Clinical reasoning

Calm under pressure

Digital tools literacy

Job description

Clinical Practice

• Independently assess, diagnose, and manage MSK presentations including complex cases


• Request investigations (e.g. imaging, blood tests) and make appropriate referrals


• Create tailored self-management plans to support behavioural change and recovery


• Use full scope of practice - including prescribing and injection therapy (if qualified)


• Record utilisation data daily and collect Patient Satisfaction Questionnaires (PSQs)

Collaboration & Development

• Work as part of a GP-based MDT and build positive relationships with practice staff


• Educate colleagues on MSK triage pathways and provide informal guidance


• Support clinical audits and service improvement initiatives


• Help shape and refine local MSK care pathways

Leadership & Learning

• Engage in supervision and peer reflection sessions


• Continue your development against the HEE Roadmap to Practice


• Contribute to clinical governance and mentoring where appropriate

Key Skills

• Confident and friendly with a collaborative approach to integrating into GP practice teams


• Able to build strong relationships with GPs, receptionists, nurses, and MDT members


• Excellent communication and clinical reasoning skills


• Calm, resilient, and proactive in a fast-paced, evolving healthcare setting


• Comfortable with digital tools and modern clinical systems


• Committed to high standards of ethical, professional, and patient-centred care