On 8 September, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) proudly celebrated World PT Day with a two-hour online event that brought together physiotherapists and multidisciplinary colleagues from across the Trust.
With approximately 300 physiotherapists working within CNWL's workforce of around 9,000 staff, the event provided an opportunity to recognise the vital contribution of physiotherapists to patient care while celebrating the profession's diversity, innovation and impact.
Focusing on Cardiovascular Health and Stroke
The event was centred on the World PT Day theme of cardiovascular health and stroke. The programme opened with a welcome from the Trust's Chief Physiotherapist, who highlighted the importance of physical activity, prevention, and rehabilitation in improving outcomes for patients.
Attendees heard from a specialist neurological physiotherapist who delivered an engaging presentation on stroke and physical activity. The programme concluded with a presentation on preventing cardiovascular disease, enabling recovery and the important role physiotherapy plays across the patient pathway.
Showcasing Physiotherapy Excellence
A highlight of the celebration was the opportunity to showcase innovation and excellence within CNWL services. A team from Ealing community paediatric physiotherapy service presented on the effectiveness of a community gym group for children and young people, demonstrating how physiotherapy services are supporting improved outcomes through creative community-based interventions.
The event also featured a celebration of CNWL physiotherapy, including photographs and staff nominations recognising physiotherapists who have made a significant contribution to patients, colleagues and services across the Trust.
Supporting Staff Wellbeing Through Movement
True to the profession's focus on movement and physical activity, attendees were encouraged to take part in two live exercise sessions. One session focused on general exercise, while another provided practical desk-based exercises designed for office workers and remote staff.
These sessions reinforced the message that movement is important for everyone and demonstrated simple ways to stay active during the working day.
Celebrating Our Diverse Physiotherapy Workforce
One of the most inspiring elements of the event was the launch of the CNWL Physiotherapy Diversity Map. Physiotherapists from across the Trust shared where they completed their professional training, creating a world map that demonstrated the international nature of the CNWL physiotherapy workforce.
The map revealed that physiotherapists working within CNWL trained across four continents, highlighting the rich diversity of experience, culture and expertise that strengthens services and benefits patients.
To complement the online event, teams across CNWL organised local "bring and share" lunches featuring food from countries where physiotherapy colleagues had trained. These celebrations provided an opportunity to learn more about one another's backgrounds while recognising the global nature of the profession.
Recognition from Senior Leadership
The celebration also included a special message from CNWL's Chief Nurse, who thanked physiotherapists for their commitment, expertise and contribution to patient care across the Trust.
Looking Ahead
World PT Day provided an opportunity not only to celebrate the achievements of CNWL physiotherapists but also to reinforce the profession's crucial role in preventing ill health, supporting recovery and enabling people to live healthier, more active lives.
