Children's community physiotherapy

Children’s (or paediatric) physiotherapy is the treatment and care of babies, children and young people from birth to 19 years.  Paediatric physiotherapists have specialist skills, expert knowledge and experience of childhood development and disabilities. 

The team recognises the importance of working collaboratively with the child, parents and the wider health, education and social team. We help to maximise a child’s potential with physical and functional activities as well as promoting independence.

The service provides clinics in nursery, mainstream and SEND schools, outpatients, home visits and within The child development team. Alternate treatment pathways such as hydrotherapy, serial casting and preschool classes may be offered following a physiotherapy assessment.

What you can expect from this service

A child’s referral is triaged by a senior physiotherapist and allocated to a named physiotherapist. This will ensure the most appropriate treatment environment is provided.

Our physiotherapist's will complete an assessment and formulate an individualised treatment plan for the child. 

If your child is offered an outpatient appointment, their parent/carer will receive an appointment letter. Physiotherapists will maintain contact with the child’s parent/carer to plan further visits.

Who is in this team?

The Community Paediatric Physiotherapy team is made up of qualified physiotherapists, physiotherapy assistants and admin support.

Age range covered

0-19 (0-4 for MSK issues)

Eligibilty criteria

Children and young people registered with a Gateshead GP

How to be seen by this service

Children can be referred via a health professional involved in your child's care, for example, a GP, nurse or hospital doctor.  If you have any queries regarding your child’s physiotherapy referral please contact the department on 0191 4453124.

When is this service available?

Monday to Friday from 8.30am until 4.30pm