About Swan Physio

Swan Physio is a local, modern Physiotherapy practice

Swan Physio is a local, modern Physiotherapy practice offering affordable high quality treatments in a convenient and pleasant setting.

The wellbeing of our clients is a priority and although we may ask you to continue exercises at home between treatment sessions our Philosophy is that “We will do what you cannot!” ‘Hands on’ methods are therefore an essential element of our treatment approach and when used alongside condition-specific and lifestyle advice provide a strong basis for successful outcomes.

We operate a team approach – so you may have your Initial Assessment with one of a more Senior Clinicians, but then see one of our more Junior Clinicians or Students once your needs have been evaluated. We feel this is a great way to keep things affordable whilst not compromising on quality.

To ensure we are working effectively as a team, and keeping our clinical skills up to date we set aside a minimum of 3 hours a week for internal training.

All of our Therapists are registered with the appropriate Professional Bodies to allow clients with Health Cash Plans or Private Medical Insurance to claim the costs of their treatments back – our reception team are able to help with any queries.

Booking Appointments with our Team

We are dedicated to helping our team balance work and life.

Our team is one to be proud of, and we are committed to helping them balance providing high quality clinical care to help people live their best lifestyles with also enjoying their own lives!

Many of our staff work for us part-time alongside their sporting commitments and further study, and our full time staff work a 4 day working week.

We do practice what we preach!

Click to book Online to see one of the Swans at a Time to suit you – F2F and Virtual Appointments available

CARYS ROBERTS

CLINICAL DIRECTOR / SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST MSC (PROPRIETER)

Carys Roberts is the lead Physiotherapist and founder of Swan Physio, taking the clinic’s name from the local emblem of Madeley village where the practice originally opened and where Carys grew up. A local success story, Carys graduated from Keele University in 2009 with First Class Honours and was awarded the cohort prize for Clinical Excellence.

Since graduating, Carys has undertaken extensive postgraduate training in pain management, muscle retraining, injury prevention and Acupuncture. Her clinical interests include complex traumatic injuries, spinal and joint conditions, chronic pain management, sports injuries, paediatric physiotherapy, acute injury management, headaches and acupuncture..

Alongside her work at Swan Physio, Carys spent almost 15 seasons as Medical Team Lead for the Stoke City Girls’ and Ladies’ programme, overseeing the medical provision and supporting players throughout their development pathway. She also spent over a decade working as a Consultant Physiotherapist on the England Lioness Pathway, supporting elite female footballers aged 14–17 with injury management, performance support and residential training camps.

Her passion for female athlete health led her to complete her MSc in Physiotherapy in 2014, conducting research in partnership with the Football Association (FA) investigating knee landing biomechanics throughout the menstrual cycle — an area that has become increasingly relevant with the rise in ACL injuries within elite women’s football. Carys has also worked as a Physiotherapist at two Commonwealth Games, supporting athletes competing at the highest level of international sport. These experiences across elite football and multi-sport international competition have helped shape her evidence-based yet practical approach to patient care.

Away from clinical practice, Carys is passionate about advancing Physiotherapy education and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. She currently serves on the Physio First Executive Committee as Learning and Development Officer, helping to shape national initiatives that improve education, training opportunities and professional support for Physiotherapists working within the private sector.

Today, Carys works on projects across the UK to improve healthcare education through advanced training courses, mentoring programmes and innovative student placement opportunities. Fortunately, she is able to dedicate time to these national roles thanks to the fantastic Swan team, who ensure the clinic continues to thrive even when she is away.

Carys’ Clinical Days: Tuesday and Thursday

CAMERON BROWN

PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Cameron holds both a BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy and an MSc in Physiotherapy, providing him with a strong foundation in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions. His clinical journey began with a work-based placement at the Staffordshire University Sports Therapy Clinic, before spending two seasons working with local semi-professional football club Leek Town, gaining valuable experience in sports injury management and rehabilitation

Having experienced physiotherapy first-hand following several injuries and operations during his younger years, Cameron was inspired to pursue a career helping others overcome pain, recover from injury and return to the activities they enjoy. He particularly enjoys the variety that physiotherapy offers and takes pride in delivering evidence-based, patient-centred care

Natalie worked a varied role within the NHS seeing a variety of conditions including trauma, orthopaedics, spinal and Rheumatology. Joining the clinic full time in 2018 so she could work more as the autonomous practitioner she trained to be, Natalie helps deliver the clinic’s weekly internal training programme to keep all staff up to date and train students on placement.

Cameron has also completed additional training in Acupuncture and has become the team’s “go-to” therapist for Auricular Acupuncture. When Carys or Natalie feel a patient may benefit from this approach as part of their wider management plan, Cameron works closely with them to help support patients experiencing headaches and related symptoms.

Away from the clinic, Cameron is a keen sports enthusiast with a particular passion for football. Having previously played competitively, he now enjoys playing recreationally and has also taken up running. His sporting background gives him a strong understanding of the physical and psychological challenges that can accompany injury, helping him relate to patients at all stages of their rehabilitation.

NATALIE DARLINGTON

SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Natalie graduated from Keele University with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy in 2011. As one of Clinical Director Carys’ very first physiotherapy students, she demonstrated her clinical ability and professionalism long before qualification. Since graduating, Natalie and Carys have worked closely together across a range of roles, including at Stoke City Football Club.

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Following graduation, Natalie built extensive experience within the NHS, treating a wide variety of conditions across trauma, orthopaedics, spinal services and rheumatology. She joined Swan Physio full-time in 2018 to focus on delivering the personalised, hands-on care that first inspired her to become a Physiotherapist.

Natalie worked a varied role within the NHS seeing a variety of conditions including trauma, orthopaedics, spinal and Rheumatology. Joining the clinic full time in 2018 so she could work more as the autonomous practitioner she trained to be, Natalie helps deliver the clinic’s weekly internal training programme to keep all staff up to date and train students on placement.

Since becoming a mother herself, Natalie has developed a particular interest in Women’s Health Physiotherapy and has become the team’s “go-to” clinician for pregnancy-related and post-natal conditions. She is passionate about helping women stay active, manage pain and return confidently to the activities they enjoy.

Natalie has completed additional training in Acupuncture, advanced spinal manual therapy techniques and Pilates for Women’s Health. She is also an accredited Clinical Educator for both Keele University and the University of Birmingham Physiotherapy programmes, supporting the development of the next generation of Physiotherapists.

Charlotte Newis

Associate Practitioner

Charlotte is a Physiotherapist with a First Class Honours BSc in Rehabilitation and Exercise Science and an MSc in Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) with Distinction – both from Keele University. With over five years of experience in Primary Care and General Medicine, she offers a strong clinical foundation and a commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care.

Charlotte holds additional training in Acupuncture, Sports Massage, and Sports Taping, allowing her to blend manual therapy techniques with evidence-based rehabilitation strategies.

Her passion for physiotherapy is rooted in her sporting background – having represented Warwickshire Women in cricket and grown up immersed in the world of sports injuries and recovery. Charlotte has also worked alongside the physiotherapy team at Warwickshire County Cricket Club, further enriching her understanding of athlete care and performance rehab.

She is especially enthusiastic about helping active individuals return to sport, work, and everyday life with confidence.

During her masters Charlotte worked with Carys to advocate better training for Physiotherapy students in communication and the skills needed for working in Private Practice at national level!

Dr Chris Norris

Consultant Physiotherapist | PhD Spinal Rehabilitation | MSc Exercise Science | Medical Author

Dr Chris Norris joined the Swan Physio team after successfully building and selling his own clinics, allowing him to continue doing what he enjoys most – helping people move better, feel better and live more active lives.

With decades of clinical experience, Chris is internationally recognised as one of the leading educators in Physiotherapy and rehabilitation. He is an international tutor and lecturer in Spinal Rehabilitation, Needling, Manual Therapy and Sports Injuries, delivering training courses to healthcare professionals around the world.

As well as being an exceptional clinician, Chris is a respected author and researcher, having written numerous textbooks and publications that have become essential reading for Physiotherapists, Sports Therapists and other healthcare professionals. In true Swan style, we often joke that he “literally wrote the book on Physio!”

Chris brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to the team, whilst also helping to keep everyone on their toes through regular teaching, mentoring and clinical discussions. His passion for evidence-based practice and lifelong learning makes him a valued member of both the Swan team and the wider Physiotherapy profession.
Chris’ Clinical Interests Include:

Spinal Rehabilitation
Neck and Back Pain
Sports Injuries
Manual Therapy
Needling Techniques
Exercise Rehabilitation
Complex Musculoskeletal Conditions

CATHERINE HOLDEN

ASSOCIATE CLINICAL PILATES INSTRUCTOR

Catherine (‘Cat’) has completed ‘Modern Pilates’ training which has an excellent reputation as it uses Physiotherapists alongside Pilates Instructors to train students. This means that anatomy and medical conditions are covered in much greater detail.

Cat has also completed additional training in Pilates for Spinal Conditions and Ante- and Post-Natal conditions.

Cat runs regular classes and 121 sessions at Swan:

Monday / Thursday Mornings

 Thursday Evenings

Hannah Beard

Osteopath

B.Ost (Hons), PGCE, BA (Hons)
Hannah qualified as an Osteopath in August 2019 after training for five years with the College of Osteopaths in Stoke-On-Trent.

Since graduating, Hannah has gained a wide variety of experience working in both private practice and the NHS.

She has worked with athletes at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2022 and has been offered a spot as an osteopath at the Paris Olympics, 2024.

Hannah has taken courses in assessing and treating cranially and viscerally. This means that she can offer a variety of options to how to approach your problem.

She aims to make treatments relaxing as well as effective, treating your whole body to include the postural and movement patterns that can cause pain.

Outside of work, Hannah heads outdoors to be active. She enjoys a challenge and has played rugby at community level for many years.

DIANE ROBERTS

COMPANY & FINANCE DIRECTOR

Diane Roberts is Swan Physio’s Company & Finance Director and, perhaps most importantly, Clinical Director Carys’ Mum!

Following a successful career in health research, Diane officially retired from the University of Manchester in 2018. Retirement, however, was short-lived, as she quickly became an integral part of the Swan team, bringing a wealth of organisational, research and financial expertise to the growing business.

A fellow Keele University graduate, Diane completed her Doctorate in 2011 and has spent much of her career working within healthcare research and academia. Her attention to detail, analytical skills and calm approach make her ideally suited to keeping the business side of Swan running smoothly.

Diane oversees the clinic’s finance and accounts functions, supports the team with administrative systems and training, and is often the person ensuring that everything is organised behind the scenes. She also performs the important role of keeping Carys on track — a full-time job in itself according to the rest of the team!

Working flexibly around her health, Diane predominantly supports the clinic remotely and can often be found responding to emails at unusual hours. While she is not always on-site, her influence is felt throughout the clinic, helping ensure both staff and patients receive the high standards of service that Swan Physio prides itself on.

HANNAH AARONS

RECEPTIONIST

Our beaming ray of Sunshine that keeps us all in line!

Hannah came to work at Swan after many years of working with Children in 2018 and was looking for a career change.

Since then Hannah has achieved her qualification in Business and Administration.

Hannah has a varied role throughout the clinic including being the main face of our reception team, managing the clinician’s diaries, coordinating other admin/support staff/students, dealing with insurance providers and assisting the Clinicians.

Hannah also attends local events promoting Swan Physio and Swan Health and Rehabilitation.

Priding herself on her excellent communication skills with our clients Hannah is able to provide a friendly yet professional service to help the clients feel welcomed and comfortable.

Hannah is able to triage clients when ringing and can answer any questions they may have.

She also makes an excellent cuppa (with or without a biscuit depending on if you are being ‘good’ or not!).

Currently on Maternity Leave 2.0 👩‍🍼

KERRY THOMAS

RECEPTIONIST & PLACEMENTS ADMINISTRATOR

Kerry joined the Swan team to help cover Hannah’s maternity leave 1.0 but quickly became a regular fixture on reception thanks to her warm personality, excellent communication skills and ability to keep everything running smoothly.

Coming from a background managing a customer service team within a large call centre environment, Kerry loves a good process and is often the person ensuring everything is organised and running efficiently behind the scenes. She has a fantastic telephone manner and is another ray of sunshine on the front desk, helping patients feel welcome from their very first contact with the clinic.

As well as supporting the reception team and managing patient enquiries, Kerry works closely with Carys on Cygnets Placements and Training, helping coordinate student placements, training administration and educational projects that support healthcare students and clinics nationally.

Outside of work, Kerry has her hands full looking after her three boys — her two children and her “big kid” of a husband, who regularly takes part in Tough Mudder challenges. When she’s not supporting patients or juggling family life, Kerry enjoys keeping active in the gym.

Her positive attitude, strong organisational skills and friendly approach make her a valued member of both the Swan and Cygnets teams.

Swan Sports Injury and Massage Clinic Team

All of our Sports Injury and Massage team have several qualifications to their name, as well as keen interests in a variety of sports. This makes them ideal to help people get back to what they love doing.

Most are working at Swan whilst completing their Masters in Physiotherapy at Keele University, or Sports Therapy degrees at Staffordshire University.

HARRY PASS

Associate Practitioner

Harry joined the Swan team after impressing during his student placement with us, demonstrating excellent hands-on treatment skills, clinical reasoning and a natural ability to build rapport with patients. As a result, he was quickly snapped up to join the team while continuing his physiotherapy training.

Harry is currently completing his integrated Masters (MSci) in Physiotherapy at Keele University. During his studies he has gained valuable experience across a range of musculoskeletal conditions and enjoys helping people improve their confidence, physical wellbeing and ability to return to the activities they love.

Alongside his university training, Harry has gained pitch-side sports injury experience working with Carys through the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA), supporting players in a competitive sporting environment. His own background in football, both as a player and grassroots referee, gives him a strong appreciation of the physical demands of sport and injury recovery.

Outside of work, Harry enjoys following a variety of sports, particularly football and darts. He is passionate about the hands-on nature of physiotherapy and helping people achieve their goals through effective treatment and rehabilitation.

LOLA CHESWORTH

RECEPTIONIST & PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSISTANT

Lola first came to Swan as a patient following a number of football-related injuries. Even as a teenager, she showed a keen interest in physiotherapy and joined us for work experience, where she quickly impressed the team with her enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to learn. In fact, by the age of 14 she was already showing up some of our Physiotherapy students – so we knew she was a superstar in the making!

Over the years, Carys has thrown an ever-growing list of jobs Lola’s way, helping her develop into a valued member of both the reception and clinical support teams. From supporting patients and clinicians to keeping on top of the day-to-day administration that keeps the clinic running smoothly, Lola has become an integral part of the Swan team.

Alongside this, Lola works as a Physiotherapy Assistant, supporting the clinical team and gaining hands-on experience whilst studying Sports Therapy at Staffordshire University. As her training progresses, you will increasingly see Lola getting involved with our Sports Massage and Gym services, building on her passion for sport, rehabilitation and helping people achieve their goals.

Lola also assists Carys with Cygnets Placements and Training, helping to coordinate student placements and educational programmes for healthcare students and clinics across the UK. Her excellent organisation and positive attitude make her a huge asset to both Swan and the wider Cygnets team.

Yoga Instructors

Lucie

Yoga Instructor

Lucie has joined the Swan team running Monday evening classes and weekend workshops.

Karen Darlington

Yoga Instructor

Francesca Bonfiglio

Yoga Instructor

Advanced Practitioner Consultant Physiotherapists

JONATHAN HOBBS

Bio coming soon

Associate Educators

CAMERON BROWN

Bio coming soon

NATALIE DARLINGTON

Bio coming soon