MSKPN Networking event 16.1.26 “If the sector grows, we’re all going to benefit.”
16/01/2026
Another fantastic MSKPN networking event with members and colleagues from across the sector gathered in a packed room of around 30 attendees, continuing the conversation with a community of like-minded MSK business owners and leaders, sharing ideas, energy and ambition for what comes next.
Simon Devane, MSKPN Chair opening remarks
Events like this are very valuable. We have a mix of tier 1 and tier 2 members along with guests
from the industry and prospective members. The real value of this event is having conversations
about the sector we’re all connected in. There is huge amount of experience in the room. We’re
all very willing to share our time and are bound by the same objective. If the sector grows, we’re
all going to benefit.
The MSKPN has spent the day reviewing our progress and looking at our strategy for the year.
Top of our agenda is commissioning services with the PMIs which remains a key challenge for
everyone. It’s not just about price but also removing the administrative burden.
Commercial areas relating to growth continue to be a priority, along with the impact of AI and
technology, its role in efficiency, reducing admin time, cyber-attacks etc.
We have been discussing how we approach this and how as a sector we make some
meaningful change. Growing our voice and our membership is important. But the backdrop is a
positive one. The sector we operate in has positive macro health drivers and the challenges our
country has from a healthcare perspective aren’t going away.
We’re pleased to announce tonight a joint collaboration with Physio First:
• MSKPN and Physio First are standing united in championing all our interests across
PMIs and software systems to deliver real, impactful change.
Katie Knapton, Chair Physio First added
As I approach two years as chair this March, Physio First is evolving and, for the first time,
growing its membership. I’m really looking forward to working more closely with MSKPN – we
should be operating as one profession. There is a lot to look forward to in terms of the
opportunities ahead and consumers need to know what good looks like.
Claire Small, Co-founder and Consultant Physiotherapist at Pure Sports Medicine and
CSP Council member kindly gave the group an update.
• Policy – The CSP’s previous policy excluded the independent sector in terms of healthcare
funding. A short life working group was set up and the perspective has shifted significantly. It
now reflects the wider interests of the industry. It is work in progress and we wait to see how
it will be enacted but the policy does now say they are going to represent independent
sector members in an equitable way to the NHS.
• The 2023-2027 Corporate Strategy, now reinforces the need to promote physiotherapy
staffing levels across public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.
• Feedback – Like all our businesses, CSP can only address issues it is aware of. We need to
speak up when something isn’t right or needs to change, and I encourage you to email me
or John Cowman directly. A good example of this is differential advertising costs for the
private sector, which were raised and have now been changed.
• Survey – Just 8% of members complete the national survey — I encourage everyone to
participate.
• Elections – Council member elections are coming up, I’d encourage some of you to stand
for election. It’s a volunteer role. You can do as much or as little as you like. A number of
current members have to re-stand. Only get re-elected if you get enough votes. I am happy
to speak with anyone who is considering standing and that a conversation is not a
commitment.
If anyone would like to chat further, please do get in touch.
