Job Description
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Assessment and Intervention:
* Assess and diagnose speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders in children and young people.
* Provide direct therapy interventions to children in a variety of settings, including home, school, and community.
* Develop individual treatment plans, setting goals and objectives to meet the needs of the child.
* Deliver evidence-based interventions to improve speech, language, and communication skills, including social communication and fluency.
Family and Carer Support:
* Educate and support parents and caregivers in the management of their child's communication difficulties.
* Offer guidance and training to family members on communication strategies and home-based interventions.
* Promote family-centred practice and ensure the views of families are central to assessment and intervention planning.
Collaboration with Multi-Disciplinary Teams:
* Work collaboratively with other professionals, including teachers, social workers, occupational therapists, and healthcare providers, to ensure an integrated approach to care.
* Attend multi-disciplinary meetings, case reviews, and clinical supervision sessions.
* Contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and other relevant documentation as required.
Record Keeping and Reporting:
* Maintain accurate, up-to-date clinical records in line with professional standards and organisational policies.
* Prepare written reports for parents, schools, and other agencies involved in the child's care.
* Monitor and review the progress of individual children and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
Training and Development:
* Participate in regular supervision and reflective practice sessions.
* Take part in professional development activities, including in-service training and workshops.
* Supervise and support junior staff, student placements, and/or assistants where applicable.
Safeguarding and Compliance:
* Adhere to safeguarding procedures and report concerns as per local policies.
* Ensure all clinical practice is carried out in accordance with Trust and national guidelines and policies.
* Follow infection control and health and safety regulations at all times.
Qualifications and Experience:
Essential:
* Degree or equivalent in Speech and Language Therapy.
* Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
* Previous experience (e.g., placements, volunteering, or relevant clinical experience) working with children, preferably within community or early years settings.
* Understanding of the typical developmental milestones in speech, language, and communication.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently when required.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable:
* Experience in working with children with a variety of speech and language disorders, including autism, developmental language disorder, and speech sound disorders.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation, including safeguarding, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), and the Children Act.
* Experience of working within a multi-disciplinary team.
Key Skills:
Clinical Skills: Ability to assess, diagnose, and treat a range of communication disorders in children.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for working with children, families, and professionals.
Organisation: Ability to manage a caseload and prioritise tasks effectively.
Adaptability: Flexibility to work in different environments and with a diverse group of children and families.
Empathy and Compassion: Ability to build rapport with children, families, and caregivers, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.
Additional Information:
* The post holder will be expected to manage their own caseload and work autonomously, while also seeking guidance and support when necessary.
* The role may involve travel within the local community, so access to a car or reliable transport is desirable.
* This is a locum post, with flexibility in working hours, but with a commitment to service delivery in a timely and professional manner.