STA75 ‘Safety In Practice: Female Massage Therapist Episode‘

Despite it being 2021, we sadly STILL live in an age where Sports & Massage Therapists do not always feel safe during / after work. From inappropriate banter, comments & requests to stalking, attack & abuse, therapists within our industry are subjected to what many of us do not realise is shockingly common abuse, highlighting a total lack of understanding of what Sports & Remedial Massage is all about. 

In Ep.75 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, we focus on safety at work for Female Massage Therapists, though the subject of safety of work is obviously one that can affect all therapists regardless of gender.  

We are joined live by nine female massage therapists, each of whom was kind enough to share personal details of their experiences and join each other in thought & discussion. The extent of this issue rapidly becomes apparent, causing us to seriously ask ourselves why this topic is so often ignored or swept under the carpet.

Warning: The subject matter in this episode may cause distress, so please check who is around you when you are listening.

If you are affected by the content of this episode and would like support or simply a chat, please email: events@thesta.co.uk

Topics discussed include:

• Why do we need this episode? - with Catherine Rimer, Becky Carol, Heather Venables

• My experience: Heather Venables

• The importance of trusting your instincts & believing in yourself (shout out to Sue Richards, former Prison Officer & PE Instructor in female & male jails).

• Why do many of us choose to 'laugh off' these stories, make them comical?

• What processes can be put into place to help minimise risk? - with Dr Fiona Higgs, Verity King, Danielle Chandler

• Advice on what to do if a situation arises - with Emma Wardle, Anne Cochrane, Sharon Hedley

• Working in a clinic environment vs. working from home vs. mobile therapy

• You are not alone; the importance of communication.

• Though the topic needs talking about & safety procedures put in place, don't let this episode put you off a fantastically rewarding career in Sports and Massage Therapy.

• What to do if you need support or simply a chat: email events@thesta.co.uk

Websites/Social Media

• Sports Therapy Association Open Group (Facebook)
• Sports Therapy Association (website) 
• Affected by this episode? Want to chat? Support is here. 

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All episodes are streamed live to our YouTube channel and remember all soft tissue therapists (non members included) are welcome to join us for the LIVE recording on Tuesdays at 8pm (UK time) on the Sports Therapy Association Facebook Page

Questions? Email: matt@thesta.co.uk