2 March 2026

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust's St Charles Ward has increased their sports therapy offering by introducing a second sports therapist. 

This addition allows for daily theraputic movement that's aligned with clinical needs, ensuring inclusion for everybody.

With more regular movement, service users have reported feeling more energised, motivated, connected and take pride in their progress. The small wins often translate into wider improvements in self-esteem and recovery journeys.

Alongside another sports therapist, St Charles have also introduced access to free, community, inclusive bike rides in scenic settings. With adapted bikes for all abilities the wellbeing, social skills and engagement benefits have been incredible. 

CNWL's Therapists say:

Emma Barton, Head Occupational Health Therapist - Kensington and Chelsea:
“The recent investment in fitness and sports posts at St Charles recognises the need for regular movement. Our 2 sport therapists have created a varied timetable to offer physical exercise across the 6 wards and strengthen links with community resources for clients to link into after discharge."

Jessia Hodnett, Lead Occupational Therapist:
“We have been able to increase our offer to 4 exercise sessions a week for all 6 wards as well as regular access to community sessions. The Saturday sessions ran by our Bank fitness instructor are also a great addition. We have an exciting new collaboration with Boxing Futures on its way too!"

Antonette, Lead Sports Therapist:
“My previous experience allowed me to see first-hand that physical activity only works therapeutically when it is consistent, embedded, and part of daily ward culture. When sessions happened once or twice a week, engagement depended too much on how a service user felt on that specific day.

Sports Therapy is not just exercise delivery. It is a structured therapeutic system that integrates physical health, emotional regulation, and recovery planning and support for community transition beyond discharge."

Vincent Dubre, Sports Therapist at St Charles:
“Having a second sports therapist at St Charles has increased group availability and provided more consistent, individualised exercise rehabilitation support. It has encouraged closer collaboration in planning sessions, progressing exercises appropriately, and supporting meaningful community-based activities. Altogether, this has helped enhance the overall quality and consistency of the groups delivered to service users."

Community bike rides!