Health and Social Services Minister Dr Brian Gibbons last week (23 November) unveiled Wales’ first strategy for therapy services.
The strategy, which was compiled in consultation with therapy professionals, service users, carers and members of health bodies and other organisations, lays down a vision for the future of Therapy Services in Wales, with ten key and emerging roles the professions can fulfil and develop.
Dr Gibbons said: “Therapy staff can make a major contribution to the health and wellbeing of the population and their work is applicable in all sectors and at the interface between sectors.
“The skills, commitment and creativity of therapy staff have been evident in innovative service developments across Wales in recent years.
“This strategy confirms this direction of travel and provides additional impetus for continued change. It encompasses the whole spectrum of health and wellbeing including injury and ill health prevention, early intervention, acute care, rehabilitation, chronic condition management and long term care.”
To read more about how therapies can be a part of recovery from severe mental illness, go to: www.hafal.org