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Written question asked by Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 14 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Karin Smyth (Labour) on Monday, 1 June 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Physiotherapy: Staff

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the (a) current and (b) projected availability of physiotherapists compared to the health needs of the population.

Answer

The Department has made no specific assessment of the current and projected availability of physiotherapists compared to the health needs of the population but NHS England’s regional teams are in constant dialogue with integrated care boards, National Health Service trusts, other bodies providing NHS services, and education and training providers to assess workforce challenges and support appropriate training across a range of services, including those involving physiotherapists.

The Government is committed to publishing a 10 Year Workforce Plan to set out action to create a workforce ready to deliver the transformed service set out in the 10-Year Health Plan. We have engaged with partners throughout the development of the 10 Year Workforce Plan, including through the call for evidence, which received over 900 responses, and a national partner event which included representatives from over 90 organisations shaping early thinking across key themes.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
1388
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Staff Physiotherapy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk