CSP anger at latest visa decision

The SOL grants a selection of professionals from overseas an easier route to obtaining a visa to work in the UK.

The CSP has been lobbying for both physiotherapists and support workers to be included, and last year the Migration Advisory Committee advised that physios should be added to the list on the basis of the evidence CSP provided.

But when the Home Office recently announced additions to the SOL  physiotherapists and support workers were omitted from the list. This is despite political commitments made in the past to make it easier for overseas physios to work in the UK.

 CSP policy director Rob Yeldham said: ‘We are angry and frustrated that the Home Office has again failed to support physiotherapy.

Although  the new health and care visa should made it easier for physios to get a visa to work for many employers, it would be much easier if physios were included on the shortage occupation list

‘The exclusion of rehab support workers is ridiculous, especially given the inclusion now of some other non-registered healthcare staff.’

Decision will impact on post-Covid need

NHS and independent services face a growing need for physios and support workers post-Covid.

‘Despite the significant growth in the number of student physios, we need to maintain the number of overseas physios and support workers working in the UK to meet patient need,’ Mr Yeldham added.

The CSP is continuing to lobby the government both directly and through membership of the Cavendish Coalition of staff bodies, employers and healthcare education bodies.