Location: Essex
Hourly Rate: £40 - £55 per hour (Contract basis)
Contract Type: Ongoing
Start Date: ASAP
Full/Part-Time Available
About Us:
We are a recruitment agency currently hiring on behalf of our client, a well-established provider of support and therapy services for children with special needs. Our client is seeking a dedicated and experienced Speech & Language Therapist to join their team on a contract basis. This is an exciting opportunity to work with children, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), helping them to develop key communication, social, and language skills in a supportive environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Comprehensive Assessment & Diagnosis
Perform thorough assessments to evaluate speech, language, and communication abilities in children with ASD and special needs. Use a range of assessment tools to gather insights into individual needs and challenges.
Develop Individualized Therapy Plans
Create personalised therapy plans targeting speech, language, and social communication goals based on each child's assessment results and individual needs.
Social Communication & Pragmatic Skills Development
Deliver therapy aimed at improving social interaction, conversational skills, and pragmatic language use for children with autism, ensuring they can engage with peers and adults in various social settings.
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
Provide support to non-verbal or minimally verbal children by introducing and managing AAC devices and systems. Tailor AAC strategies to meet each child's communication needs.
Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
Work closely with other professionals such as occupational therapists, teachers, psychologists, and parents to ensure a holistic approach to therapy and support for each child.
Parent and Caregiver Education & Support
Provide guidance and training to parents and caregivers, helping them implement therapy techniques at home to reinforce speech and communication development in everyday situations.
Behavioural Support
Address communication-related behavioural challenges by using evidence-based interventions that promote emotional regulation and reduce frustration.
Record Keeping & Progress Monitoring
Maintain detailed records of therapy sessions, progress, and outcomes. Regularly report progress to families and other professionals involved in the child's care.
Ongoing Professional Development
Stay updated on the latest research and best practices in speech and language therapy, particularly in the field of autism and special needs, to provide the best possible care.
Key Requirements:
Degree in Speech and Language Therapy (or equivalent).
HCPC Registration as a Speech & Language Therapist.
Experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of evidence-based practices for children with autism, including ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
Experience with early intervention strategies for children with speech and language delays.
Strong understanding of sensory processing issues and how they affect communication and behaviour.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively with children, parents, and a multidisciplinary team.
DBS Check (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance required.
Desirable Skills:
Experience with play-based therapy methods.
Familiarity with supporting children with other special needs, including ADHD, learning disabilities, and developmental delays.
Cultural competence in working with diverse families and children.
Ability to collaborate and work in a multidisciplinary team to support each child's holistic development.
What's on Offer:
Hourly Rate: £40 - £55 per hour, depending on experience.
Flexible Hours: This is a contract role, offering flexibility to suit your schedule.
Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development to enhance your skills and knowledge in the field of speech and language therapy for children with autism.
Supportive Environment: Work within a dynamic and collaborative team of health care and education professionals.
Meaningful Impact: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special needs, helping them achieve their communication potential.
How to Apply:
If you are a qualified Speech & Language Therapist with experience in working with children with ASD and other special needs, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to [Insert Contact Information or Link to Apply