Principal Speech

NHFT we are Outstanding Trust

Head and Neck Principal Speech & Language Therapist

Band 8a

£50,952- £57,349 pa pro rata

An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Adult Speech & Language Therapy Service
- As the Principal SLT lead for Head and Neck Cancer you will lead, develop and innovate the clinical pathways within this field, working closely with the ENT, Maxillofacial and Oncology Teams within Northampton General Hospital.

The post is based within the Head and Neck multi-disciplinary team at Northampton General Hospital. You will provide an excellent and responsive service to adults with swallowing and communication impairments as a result of head and neck cancer treatments (surgical and oncological). This will include management of a clinical caseload including complex laryngectomy including valve changes and tracheostomy care, and provision of an objective swallowing service (FEES and videofluoroscopy). Competencies in FEES would be beneficial but can be provided if necessary.

The pathway provides a service to in and outpatients across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes. There will also be an opportunity to participate in the PATHOS clinical trial.

The post holder will be an experienced Speech and Language Therapist with highly specialist knowledge of differential diagnosis associated with complex head and neck cancer and upper airway management

Will independently manage and prioritise a complex, highly specialist caseload of Head & Neck cancer patients including highly complex Dysphagia and laryngectomy.

Will support/mentor junior colleagues and provide expert opinions to others, including advice and support for colleagues referring to specialist services from outside Northampton.

Will provide clinical teaching of Speech and Language Therapy students and will develop and deliver specialist training to others in the area of clinical expertise.

Will initiate and undertake research/ Clinical Governance/audit projects within area of expertise.

Will lead on development of care protocols/packages in relation to specialist area, in conjunction with principal/service manager.

To develop the Head and Neck cancer pathway in line with national developments and guidelines

To provide specialist treatment plans to inpatients and outpatients with Head & Neck cancer / complex airway management and highly complex dysphagia.

To take the Speech and Language Therapy lead in multi-disciplinary clinics

To undertake the fitting and replacement of voice prostheses used in surgical voice restoration.

There is good professional support, regular clinical supervision, as well as strong links with the East Midlands H&N Cancer Advisory Group.

NHFT is an outstanding Trust who encourages flexible working and strives to improve the work life balance of employees through improved health and wellbeing.

For further information on the advertised role, please refer to the job description located under the Supporting Documents heading. The full person specification can be accessed under the ‘About You’ Section of the document.