Clarity and compliance around protected titles, veterinary referrals, and professional regulation.
The title Chartered Physiotherapist is legally protected in the UK and may only be used by physiotherapists who have completed an accredited BSc (Hons) degree (or equivalent) and are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
The HCPC is the UK's statutory regulator for health professionals, including physiotherapists. It sets and enforces standards of training, conduct, and continuing professional development. It has the authority to remove individuals from the register or prosecute those falsely claiming protected titles. Learn more about HCPC.
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) is the professional, educational, and trade union body representing physiotherapists in the UK. Those registered may use the post-nominal MCSP (Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy). Learn more about CSP.
The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) is a clinical interest group of the CSP. ACPAT members have undertaken further training and assessment to work with animals professionally and ethically under veterinary referral.
While the titles 'Veterinary Surgeon' and 'Chartered Physiotherapist' are protected, the terms 'Animal Physiotherapist' or 'Veterinary Physiotherapist' are not currently protected. This means that individuals without formal training may legally use those titles, which can cause confusion.
ACPAT, the CSP, and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) continue to campaign for changes to protect these professional designations and safeguard animal welfare.
Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (1966), animals can only be treated by a veterinary surgeon or someone authorised by a veterinary surgeon. This means that a Chartered Physiotherapist must receive consent from the animal’s vet before treatment can begin.