HSP and University of Hertfordshire Unite to Deliver MSK Recovery Project

Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership (HSP) and the University of Hertfordshire (UH) Institute of Sport (IOS) have partnered together to develop an innovative Musculoskeletal (MSK) Rehabilitation Pathway, creating a new approach to supporting adults living with MSK conditions across Hertfordshire.  

The innovative project has been made possible through funding from Hertfordshire County Council Public Health’s Prevention Investment Programme and will support economically inactive adults across Hertfordshire living with musculoskeletal (MSK) pain and functional limitations. Through the delivery of structured, accessible and clinically robust rehabilitation services, the project aims to reduce pain, improve physical function and build confidence, helping participants overcome barriers to activity and move closer to employment or re-enter the workforce. 

MSK conditions can significantly impact an individual's everyday life, affecting their independence and ability to remain in employment. Long-term absence from work can have substantial consequences, with one third of people who are signed off for four weeks or longer never returning to employment. For those absent for six months or more, this figure rises to 80%. These statistics highlight the need for early, accessible support to help individuals to manage their condition and remain active. The MSK Rehabilitation Pathway has been developed to address this need, providing tailored support to improve health and wellbeing, maintain physical activity, and reduce the risk of long-term absence from work. 

To ensure a high standard of clinical care, the UH Institute of Sport is recruiting a Lead Clinician to lead and manage the operational delivery of the MSK Clinic within the pathway. The role will involve delivering high-quality MSK assessment and treatment to patients, as well as leading and delivering group-based sessions. As part of the pathway, individuals will be triaged into HSP opportunities, ensuring treatment plans are aligned with physical activity interventions that support continued activity and help people remain in, or return to, employment.  

The development of the MSK Rehabilitation Pathway represents an exciting collaboration between HSP and the UH Institute of Sport, strengthening the connection between rehabilitation services and physical activity support. By providing a more joined-up approach to recovery, the pathway aims to help people manage their condition more effectively, improve their health and wellbeing, remain active and independent, and return to everyday life and employment more quickly. 

This exciting Physiotherapist role offers the opportunity to shape a new rehabilitation service and improve outcomes for people living with MSK conditions. Find out more and apply here

Reference section:  

The Role of Occupational Health in Prevention | Society of Occupational Medicine