Speech and Language Therapy Assistant

Duties and Responsibilities; Clinical To carry out therapy programmes devised by Speech and Language therapists either with individual children or in small groups, often working independently, and reporting session outcomes to the lead or supervising therapist. To become proficient in recognising children with a range of communication difficulties, and delivering treatment plans, whilst being supported by a Speech and Language Therapist. To carry out School/Nursery and occasionally home visits as identified by a Speech and Language Therapist. To undergo an initial period of in service training and continue to receive appropriate training.

To keep Speech and Language Therapists fully informed of a child’s progress. To respect the confidentiality of all information to which she/he has access. To maintain departmental quality standards in working practices and be aware of clinical pathways and guidelines. To have a flexible approach in the support of the Speech and Language Therapy team.

To represent the service at meetings where required, under the guidance of a Speech and Language Therapist e.g. school review meetings, service promotion events. To provide universal and targeted level advice on optimising the client’s communicative environment taking into consideration the communication skills of parents/guardians, carers and other professionals. To provide universal and targeted level advice and support to professionals working with children with communication needs and typically developing children to ensure optimum development.

To become proficient in using signs, symbols or other non-verbal communication systems. To assist the therapist in devising and implementing a range of non-verbal communication systems (such as signs or symbols). To highlight to the supervising therapist where appropriate onward specialist referrals for children may be required e.g. to Audiology To provide administrative support preparing, photocopying and maintaining supply of therapy materials/equipment and augmentative communication materials.

To be responsible for the care and maintenance of SLT equipment. Communication To have very good verbal/written communication skills. Communicate information about treatment to clients, carers and other professionals effectively. To provide verbal advice to parents/guardians, carers and other professionals regarding the management and care of children - this will be appropriate to a range of audiences and easy to understand.

To ensure that clients/parents/ teaching staff are involved in the delivery of the treatment plans. To maintain up to date and accurate case notes in line with service policies. To share information with clients, carers and other professionals, observing current data protection guidelines. Teaching Skills To deliver pre written training to others related to Speech, Language and Communication.

To demonstrate the ability to reflect on and evaluate the training provided with guidance from a lead Speech and Language Therapist. To support/coach/skill and advise others in the delivery of treatment programmes e.g. parents/carers and education practitioners. Clinical Governance Requirements To gather and submit statistical data punctually.

To have a working knowledge of relevant procedures including safeguarding children. To engage in Continuing Professional Development. To demonstrate a passion and commitment to the profession through self-guided study. To participate in an individual performance review, ensuring that the objectives set reflect the service and organisation plans as well as own development needs.

To attend relevant in-service training and meetings. To take responsibility for maintaining and continually developing professional skills and knowledge in SLCN. To participate in team and departmental projects as required. Business Development To promote and raise awareness of ChatterBug and the services we provide and represent the organisation at a local level.

To identify opportunities to help support the growth/ development of the organisation by identifying opportunities for new business. To represent the company ethos and values. Analytical and Judgemental Skills To demonstrate the ability to reflect on practice with peers and mentors and to identify own strengths and development needs. To anticipate and take appropriate steps to prevent the breakdown of relationships with parents/guardians and other professionals.

To gather service user feedback and participate in service analysis of feedback. Responsibility for Client Care and Contact with Carers To demonstrate the ability to support people with communication difficulties and their parents/carers. To work closely with clients, carers and other professionals to negotiate and agree with client management. To demonstrate empathy with clients, carers and colleagues, ensuring that effective communication is achieved, particularly where significant barriers to understanding exist.

To respond sensitive