Sunderland AFC, you’re not just becoming part of a football club; you’re entering a vibrant community fuelled by passion and pride. Our commitment to making a difference means you’ll engage with local initiatives that truly matter, allowing you to leave a positive impact right here at home.
You’ll thrive in an exciting, dynamic atmosphere where every day is a new adventure filled with the thrill of football and teamwork. We believe in nurturing talent, so you’ll have access to training programs and mentorship opportunities.
Our diverse and inclusive culture celebrates individuality, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. You’ll be part of a team that unites in the spirit of collaboration and respect, making your work environment both rewarding and inspiring.
About the Women’s Team
Our team is committed to fostering a supportive environment that empowers female athletes to showcase their skills and reach their full potential.
We prioritise player development through tailored training programs that focus on technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical fitness.
The SAFC Women’s Football Team benefits from strong collaboration with our Coaching and Analysis teams, ensuring that our strategies and training sessions are informed by the latest insights and best practices.
The Opportunity
Provide pitch-side injury assessment and emergency care during training sessions and matches, while maintaining up-to-date Medical Emergency Action Plans for all training and matchday environments. Deliver evidence-informed assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation for injured players, leading return-to-play processes in collaboration with the wider medical and performance team, and supporting pre-season physical testing where required.
Maintain accurate medical records and contribute to medical governance processes, including compliance with safeguarding, health and safety, and league regulations. Support the management of medical equipment and budgets, and liaise with external providers regarding scans, treatment, and specialist services as needed.
Work closely with coaching, medical, and performance staff to ensure an integrated player support model, maintaining excellent communication, professionalism, and confidentiality at all times. Contribute to player wellbeing and education across areas such as injury prevention, recovery, load management, and self-management, while demonstrating an ongoing commitment to CPD and professional development.
What We Ask For
Candidates must be a Chartered Physiotherapist registered with the HCPC and hold an up-to-date Level 5 ATMMiF Advanced Emergency Aid qualification. Applicants should also have completed, or be willing to complete, the UK Anti-Doping Introduction to Clean Sport and FootballHER courses. Must be in possession of an up-to-date FA Safeguarding qualification.
Please note that applications from Sports Therapists will not be considered.
The successful candidate will have a minimum of two seasons experience working in professional sport, with proven expertise in pitch-side emergency care, injury rehabilitation, and return-to-play management within a multidisciplinary environment. Experience working closely with coaching and performance staff to deliver an integrated player support model is essential, alongside strong clinical record keeping, medical governance knowledge, and experience coordinating referrals for imaging, surgical consultation, and specialist rehabilitation services. The ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced high-performance environment is also required.
You will be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS through SAFC.
Women's First Team Physiotherapist
Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom
SR6 7UW
Permanent - Full-time
Sunderland AFC – EEO Statement
Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.
Sunderland AFC – Safeguarding
Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC owes a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the football club. Sunderland AFC will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club. Importantly, safeguarding is not the responsibility of a single individual or team; it is a collective responsibility that involves everyone associated with the club. From staff and volunteers to players and supporters, each person has a crucial role in creating a safe and welcoming environment. All members of the Sunderland AFC community are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly, knowing that safeguarding is a shared responsibility that helps protect those most vulnerable.
Benefits
Annual Leave Employee Offering
25 days leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 27 days after 5 years’ service
Death in Service Employee Benefit
The Death in Service benefit provides peace of mind for you and your family, offering a safety net of four times the basic annual salary in the unfortunate event of a loss.
Salary Exchange Schemes
Agree to reduce your salary through our Salary Exchange Schemes to enjoy benefits like tax savings, increased pension contributions for a larger retirement fund, eco-friendly travel with EV Salary Sacrifice, and healthier commutes with Cycle 2 Work.
Complimentary Season Tickets
Score two free tickets for all home fixtures, so you can kick back, cheer on the club, and enjoy all the Premier League action!
Enhanced Family and Parental Pay
Enhanced Paternity, Maternity, and Adoption pay provide new parents with more than just statutory pay, offering additional financial support to embrace your time with your families!
Employee Assistance Programs
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer confidential support services that go beyond just workplace wellness, providing you with access to counselling, resources, and tools to tackle personal challenges and enhance your overall well‑being!
Free Parking
Free parking at both the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light
Discounts
SAFC employees enjoy various discount packages from our partners, including exclusive offers at the Club Store.
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