Registration in Uk for Physio Assistants

Hi I was wondering if anybody out there knows about the rules in the UK in regards to registration.

I went to the Uk in 2002 after being told I would be able to get a job as a physio assitant. When I got there they told me I had to be registered. I did not have a work permit at that time so I didnt persue the employment as it was all too hard and after a long trip travelling I didnt have enough money to continue with the red tape.

This time I have EU citizenship so I am able to work in the UK. Do I need to register in the UK as an assistant as well. Last time I tried to do that all they asked me about was papers to prove I was a physiotherapist. I told them I wasn't a physiotherapist, I was an assistant but they couldn't get past that.

Is anybody able to tell me if I can work in the UK without being registered
Do they still require you to be registered if you are an assistant

I have an Allied Health Assitants Certificate from Australia
I have also worked for 8 years in the field as well as a year in the care industry
What are my chances of getting a job

Thank for your help
Jencat