From helping children with swallowing difficulties to diagnosing and treating adults who have a disturbance in their vision or providing specialist complementary therapies for those who have cancer, Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) are making a real difference to the lives of patients of all ages across Walsall.

And their roles will come under the spotlight next Monday 14 October when Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust celebrates national Allied Health Professionals Day.

 As well as raising awareness of the many AHP roles that are helping to transform health, care and wellbeing, the focus will also be on Healthcare Sciences and detailing the career development opportunities that are available and advising those who want to consider pursuing a career in a profession allied to health.

Staff from the trust’s hospital and community services will be hosting an information stand in the Costa Coffee area of Walsall Manor Hospital on Monday 14 October between 11am and 2pm.

Megan Parr, Practice Education Facilitator for Allied Health Professions, said: “The first AHPs focus day was held last year, sparked by a twitter conversation, and we’re really pleased to be holding another one this year

“So many people find the care and support they receive from an AHP invaluable yet it’s a role where colleagues can often feel overlooked because they’re not a doctor or a nurse; equally invaluable. In the run up to our big day next week we’ll be raising the profile of AHPs and taking the time to appreciate and understand the daily contribution they make in Walsall.

“And we look forward to welcoming people popping by our stand on Monday.”