BAPAM (British Association for Performing Arts Medicine) opens a free physiotherapy clinic in Glasgow for performing arts professionals and students.
The BAPAM clinic provides expert, physiotherapist-led assessment and advice to meet specialist health support needs in the performing arts.
Opened in October, the clinic provides free clinical assessments to the performing arts community in the city and surrounding areas who are experiencing illness or injury that is impacting their ability to work or study.
75% of those working in the performing arts will face a health problem that impacts their career.
Many people in the sector are freelance, gig economy workers, meaning that any health problem that affects their work can massively impact their ability to earn a living. BAPAM’s expert, clinician-led support helps artists, creators and industry professionals overcome health problems quickly and safely through accurate diagnosis and occupation-specific advice.
To visit the clinic, performing arts professionals and students can email info@bapam.org.uk or call 020 8167 4775.
Leading the clinic is Elodie Gauthier, a senior performing arts specialist physiotherapist based in Glasgow with a background in writing and music, yoga teaching and psychology.
Speaking on the opening of the clinic, BAPAM CEO Claire Cordeaux said:
“We are delighted to be offering face-to-face support in Glasgow, providing free, specialist healthcare advice from a clinician embedded in the creative community.
BAPAM’s goal is to create a healthier and more sustainable performing arts sector for all. Around the UK, we are bringing together clinical experts to support performers, artists and industry professionals.”
The performing arts community welcomed this expanded support for creative practitioners in Scotland.
“BAPAM has a unique place globally in terms of the support and services it provides for performers and people working in the industry. We are proud to have a long-standing partnership with the charity and the Glasgow clinic will be an invaluable addition to Scotland’s music infrastructure.”
Olaf Furniss, Founder / Director Wide Events.
“It’s fantastic to have a dedicated BAPAM clinic in Glasgow with local clinicians who know the Scottish performing arts landscape. I strongly encourage Equity members – and anyone working in the performing arts to find out more about BAPAM and make use of this support. Their expert services, including physiotherapy with the fantastic Elodie Gauthier, can make a real difference in
keeping performers healthy and working at their best.”
Louise Montgomery, Secretary of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Equity branch
“Having access to BAPAM’s support when I needed it was invaluable. They are a vital resource and it’s great that there is a dedicated clinic right in the heart of Glasgow. The practitioners are extremely helpful and truly understand the unique demands of our profession. If you’re in the industry and facing an injury or illness that’s affecting your work, do not hesitate to contact BAPAM.”
Lyell Walker (Performer)