Physiotherapy Jobs in Glasgow: A Guide for Disabled Job Seekers

Are you a disabled job seeker looking for physiotherapy jobs Glasgow? You’ve come to the right place. This guide will help you explore the opportunities available in the city and provide tips on how to navigate the job market effectively.

According to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, there is a massive shortage of physiotherapists in Scotland. While England has seen a 96% increase in undergraduate physiotherapy programmes over the last 10 years, Scotland’s numbers have virtually remained the same for 15 years. This is putting tremendous strain on services, leading to reduced capacity and much longer wait times for patients needing care.

For disabled job seekers interested in physiotherapy, this workforce shortage presents a unique opportunity. Employers across Glasgow are actively seeking skilled professionals to fill critical gaps, making now an excellent time to apply and focus on building a career in this rewarding sector.

The Current Landscape of Physiotherapy Jobs in Glasgow

So, where do you start? Well, a good place to get the ball rolling would be to look at Glasgow’s physiotherapy job market. What types of places are in need of physiotherapists? Where does the demand lie?

Here are some key areas to consider:

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

This is one of the largest healthcare employers in the region, offering a variety of NHS physiotherapy roles. They have a strong commitment to supporting disabled employees and providing inclusive workplaces. The NHS is known for its comprehensive support systems, which can be particularly beneficial for disabled staff.

Private Clinics

Private practices in Glasgow offer a range of physiotherapy positions, from general practice to specialised services. Many are now actively seeking to create more diverse and inclusive teams. This trend is driven by the recognition that a diverse workforce can enhance patient care and improve workplace culture.

Sports Teams

For those interested in sports physiotherapy, Glasgow is home to several prominent sports teams, including football clubs like Celtic and Rangers as well as rugby league and union teams. Working in sports physiotherapy can be a hugely rewarding career path, one in which you get to work with athletes and contribute to their performance and recovery.

Specialisations and Career Paths

Now that we have a better idea of the lay of the land, the next step is deciding which specialisation you’d be most interested in. As with all branches of healthcare, physiotherapy encompasses a wide range of specialisations, each with its own set of opportunities:

Musculoskeletal (MSK) Therapy

This involves working with patients who have musculoskeletal conditions, such as joint or muscle injuries. It’s a popular area of focus in Glasgow due to the high demand for these services. MSK therapy can be particularly rewarding as it often involves helping patients regain mobility and reduce pain.

Rehabilitation Specialist

As a rehabilitation specialist, you would help patients recover from injuries or surgeries. Rehabilitation specialists play a crucial role in supporting patients through their recovery journey, helping them regain independence and quality of life.

Neurological Physiotherapy

With several specialist neurological centres in the city, this could be an exciting career path for those interested in working with neurological conditions. Neurological physiotherapy involves helping patients manage conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis, which can be both challenging and rewarding.

Respiratory Physiotherapy

This specialisation has seen increased demand due to ongoing global health challenges. Respiratory physiotherapists work with patients who have breathing difficulties, helping them manage conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pneumonia.

Overcoming Barriers: Adaptive Workplace Accommodations

When applying for jobs, it’s essential to consider the workplace accommodations that might be available to you. Employers in the UK are legally required to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees. These can include:

• Flexible working hours
• Assistive technology
• Accessible workspaces
• Support workers

Don’t hesitate to discuss your needs during the application process. Many employers in Glasgow are committed to creating inclusive workplaces and will be happy to explore options with you. Being open about your requirements can help ensure that you have the support you need to excel in your role.

Job Search Strategies for Disabled Physiotherapists

We’re almost there. This penultimate section will highlight six strategies to help you find and secure a physiotherapy job in Glasgow:

Step #1: Tailor your CV and Cover Letter

Highlight your relevant experiences and skills. Emphasise how your perspective as a disabled professional can contribute positively to the workplace. Tailoring your CV and Cover Letter to each job application can help you stand out and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Use our CV template and Cover Letter template to get started.

Step #2: Use inclusive job boards

Websites like Careers with Disabilities often list physiotherapy positions in Glasgow. These platforms are designed to connect disabled job seekers with employers who are committed to inclusivity.

Step #3: Network

Join professional groups like the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. They frequently host events like webinars and conferences where you can meet potential employers. Networking is also a fantastic way to learn about job opportunities and help you build relationships within the industry.

Step #4: Be open about your needs

If you require any accommodations for interviews, inform the employer in advance. This shows proactivity and helps ensure a fair assessment of your skills. Being upfront about your needs can also help build trust with potential employers.

Step #5: Consider NHS Scotland’s Disability Confident Scheme

The NHS Scotland is a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader which is the highest ranking an organisation can receive under the Disability Confident Scheme. As such, disabled applicants know that the organisation is committed to employing, retaining, and developing disabled staff.

Step #6: Don’t limit yourself

Apply for jobs even if you don’t meet 100% of the criteria. Your skills and perspective might be exactly what the employer is looking for. Employers often value diverse perspectives and experiences, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t tick every single box.

Conclusion

Glasgow offers numerous opportunities for disabled professionals in the physiotherapy field. With Scotland’s current shortage of qualified practitioners, your skills are in high demand across the NHS, private clinics, and sports organisations.

Your unique perspective as a disabled professional brings valuable insights to patient care. By highlighting these strengths during your search for physiotherapy jobs Glasgow, you can position yourself effectively in a competitive market.

Start looking for physiotherapy jobs Glasgow now on the Careers with Disabilities jobs board.