A specialist physiotherapist dedicated to advancing women’s pelvic health, has received an Apprentice of the Year award from Brunel University, in recognition of her exceptional commitment to patient care and clinical developments.
Natasha McManus, a senior pelvic health physiotherapist at the University Hospital of North Tees, qualified as a physiotherapist 10-years ago and specialised in pelvic health six-years ago.
The award comes as she enters her final year of her Pelvic Health Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) Master’s Apprenticeship. An experience she describes as a ‘deeply reflective and transformative experience’.
Natasha said: “After several years and multiple postgraduate courses, I still felt I had unanswered questions. I also recognised that I didn’t have the clinical supervision or structure I needed to grow in this highly specialised area.
“That realisation led me to take the leap into a three-year apprenticeship. I want to be able to improve pelvic health pathways so patients receive timely access to care and excellent treatment.”
Taking the apprenticeship route
Natasha initially worked in musculoskeletal supporting women experiencing pain during pregnancy. It was during this time that she realised there were elements of clinical assessments that could be improved.
She said: “We typically don’t ask women about their pregnancy journey, menstrual health, or perimenopause and menopause – yet all of these have a profound impact on musculoskeletal conditions.”
Currently writing her dissertation for the apprenticeship, it focuses on improving patient pathways into pelvic health services.
She continues: “I chose the apprenticeship route because I found myself inspired after hearing incredible pelvic health physiotherapists speak at an International Urogynaecological Association conference. Their work made me look seriously at advanced practice pathways.
“What appealed to me most was the opportunity to learn over time, rather than in a short, intense course. The apprenticeship structure created a safe space to ask questions – questions I might have felt too silly to ask as a qualified physiotherapist.
“I also valued having a consultant who would challenge my thinking and push me outside my comfort zone. The apprenticeship has me feeling empowered to drive real change within the NHS.
“The most important lesson I’ve taken from the last three years has been the value of relationships within teams, mentors and with patients.”
A transformative learning experience
Receiving her Apprentice of the Year nomination came as a shock.
Natasha shared: “I genuinely thought the nomination email was spam! I’m not someone who shows off. But I care deeply and work hard and I’m never afraid to ask difficult questions.
The award win is a bit like winning the Oscars – I feel truly seen and valued. It has reminded me that my peers believe in my work and the impact it has.
Natasha attended the awards ceremony in London on Friday 6 February and found the ceremony inspiring, uplifting and confirmation of all her hard work to date.
She added: “If nothing else, I think the award reflects my resilience and passion for women’s health. Work is my safe space, and improving women’s wellbeing is what drives me.”
A final message for anyone considering an apprenticeship
Natasha’s message is simple: “Go for it. If you want to grow, clinically and professionally, this is an incredible route.
“It will challenge you, but it will also show you just how much you can achieve and how you can shape the future of the NHS”