Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) and Community Services

Allied Health Professionals (AHP) and Community Services deliver a broad and essential range of diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services aimed at supporting patients across all stages of life and at every point in their care journey. AHPs play a crucial role in maintaining and improving health and wellbeing, maximising independence, and preventing unnecessary hospital admissions. 

The directorate encompasses a wide range of professions, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, dietetics, podiatry and more. AHP services are provided across hospital, community, outpatient, and home-based settings, ensuring timely and person-centred care for a diverse patient population. 

AHP teams work collaboratively with medical, nursing, surgical, and mental health colleagues to deliver integrated care, supporting recovery, self-management, and long-term condition management. Services are designed to be responsive, accessible, and focused on individual goals, helping people return to daily activities, work, or education. 

Referral Guidance 

Referrals to AHP services should be directed via the appropriate clinical pathway to ensure timely assessment and management. Primary care referrers are encouraged to use established referral guidance, which includes detailed information to facilitate efficient referrals. 

For further information on specific speciality referral criteria, pathways, and contact details, please see available speciality information on the left.