Why I'm proud to be a paediatric physiotherapist

My name is Trupti Bhandari.?

I became a paediatric physiotherapist because I have always loved entertaining and keeping children amused. I thought what better use of my skills in the career I love, but to work with the population I cherish. ?

"I love working with the kids I look after, I feel like I am an extension of their families and get to be part of all their achievements in sports, and even get told their GCSE and A-Level results."

When people ask what it’s like to work at Evelina London Children’s Hospital – all I can say is that I love it! I started at Evelina London in March 2013 in my role as a haemophilia physiotherapist and felt really welcomed by all. After two months, I decided that this was my ‘forever home’.??

I feel incredibly privileged to work for such a forward thinking Trust and in a hospital that really puts patients at the centre of everything whilst looking after the staff who work here. I have always felt that the voices of the staff have been heard and there is a genuine wish to do better.?

The most fulfilling part of my job is when a child has a light bulb moment. I have managed to explain their condition, the rare bleeding disorder haemophilia, to them in?a way that they understand why they need to be honest?and inform their parents of an injury so that we can keep them safe and enjoying life. ?

If you are considering a career as a paediatric physiotherapist, I would say there is no rush to specialise in paediatrics. All the other skills that you gain with adult rotations are transferable and valuable. ??

The diversity of the workforce in London as an AHP (Allied Health Professional) is amazing, the different people you meet and the opportunity to learn, ranging from colleagues to patients themselves. If you are willing to listen, people are willing to talk to you and share their experiences. ?

I think one of the benefits of working in paediatrics is you get to be creative and think outside the box with getting kids to do what you are asking. They will need to trust and like you before they are willing to do any exercise or activity. They are always full of optimism and see the positives in life, which makes them a pleasure to treat. ?

I have had so many proud moments that it is really hard to come up with one. I love working with the kids I look after, I feel like I am an extension of their families and get to be part of all their achievements in sports, and even get told their GCSE and A-Level results.??

The one that does stand out is when I was nominated for the AHP Champion award during the AHP Day at the Trust in October 2019. I was there to support the clinical lead as we had nominated her and there was my name under one of the headings! It came as a complete surprise and I still to this day have no idea who nominated me, but believe me I did try to find out!?