Joanna Dunn
Dietetic Assistant Practitioner
What is an AHP support worker?
An Allied Health Professional (AHP) support worker is a healthcare support role working alongside AHPs to help people live healthier, more independent lives. Importantly, AHP support workers can also work autonomously within their competencies and hold delegated caseloads, supporting patients safely.
What does an AHP Support Worker do?
They support patient care and rehabilitation by:
- Assisting patients with exercises or daily activities
- Preparing equipment for therapy or treatment
Supporting assessments and treatment plans under AHP guidance - Recording patient progress and reporting back to the AHP
- Encouraging and motivating patients during therapy sessions
- Supporting patients to become as independent as possible.
What settings can they work in?
Hospitals
- Inpatient wards
- Outpatient clinics
- Operating theatres
Community services
- Supporting people in their own homes
- Community rehabilitation teams
- Falls prevention and reablement services
Rehabilitation centres
- Stroke and neuro-rehabilitation units
- Specialist rehab pathways
Schools and education settings
- Assisting children and young people alongside OTs, SALTs, and physiotherapists
Mental health services
- Inpatient and community mental health teams
- Learning disability services
Primary care and GP practices
- Supporting first-contact practitioners and AHP-led clinics
Care homes and supported living
- Supporting residents’ mobility, communication, and independence
