Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist

Works individually and as part of SLT, integrated therapy and other multi-disciplinary and multi-agency teams to provide a service for children and young people who have speech, language and communication difficulties Independently assesses, diagnoses, formulates care plans, writes assessment reports and provides appropriate intervention for clients with speech, language and communication impairments. Gathers relevant information from a variety of sources to inform diagnosis and decision making about individual clients. Provides intervention and evaluates outcomes. Involves clients, where appropriate, and their parents/carers in planning therapy programmes.

Maintains and provides full, accurate and comprehensive case records and reports. Reflects on the auditory, visual and kinaesthetic aspects of a clients communication and identifies appropriate strategies to facilitate and enhance communicative effectiveness. Develops clear care plans based on best practice. Advises clients, carers and staff in Health and other agencies on supplementary or alternative means of communication, as appropriate.

Actively involves patients in decisions about their own healthcare. Works with parents and Education staff to plan and evaluate developmental and educational targets relating to speech, language and communication. Provides advice, training and support to educational staff, outside agencies, parents and carers, as appropriate, which may involve training in specific therapy techniques acquired via postgraduate training. Provides advice for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) and to contribute to Individual Education Plans.

When appropriate, writes reports, attends team meetings, case conferences, parents meetings and contributes to Annual Reviews of EHCPs. Identifies opportunities for integrated clinical working and joint pathways with Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy colleagues. Refers on to other specialist Health and Education services as appropriate.