Job responsibilities
To assess, diagnose and manage a specialist caseload independently demonstrating evidence of sound clinical judgement and outcome measurement with access to support and supervision as necessary. This includes complex cases.
To demonstrate specialist knowledge in clinical specialism underpinned by current evidence based practice.
To cater for children in the community with a range of communication difficulties including Stammering, Speech and/or Language Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
To work together with parents and other professional to implement a range of Universal, Targeted and Specialist provisions for children aged 0-18 years.
To support parents and other professionals in evaluating and developing a communication-rich learning environment.
To demonstrate a working knowledge of the Early Years and National curriculum and SEN processes in the context of speech and language therapy.
To work collaboratively as a member of multidisciplinary teams by discussing speech and language therapy input around client needs.
To reflect on practice with peers and identify strengths and needs.
To provide support and supervision for assistants, volunteers and junior team members as directed by Clinical Service Lead including mentoring newly qualified SLTs.
To contribute to the induction and support system for new staff.
To provide full student speech and language therapy placements.
To supervise and plan time-table and work for assistants and volunteers.
To write appropriate reports and case notes, reflecting specialist knowledge.
To maintain up to date and accurate case notes in line with RCSLT professional standards and local trust policies.
To share information with others, observing data protection guidelines.
To communicate verbally and in writing with parent/ carer/ client assessment findings, diagnosis and therapy intervention plan reflecting specialist knowledge. This may include breaking bad news in a sensitive manner.
To negotiate with parents/clients/other professionals around case management with support as necessary and to recognise potential breakdown and conflict when it occurs and seek advice and support to resolve.
To employ negotiation skills in the management of conflict across a range of situations.
To deal with initial complaints sensitively, avoiding escalation where possible.
To attend and contribute to relevant Speech and Language Therapy Team meetings and participate in team projects.
To attend and participate in departmental study/development days.
To provide advice and training to less experienced/ junior colleagues and/or other professionals in the field.
To contribute to the teaching / training of other SLTs, parents, carers and other professionals.
To target training appropriately to the needs of course participants and to evaluate it.
To monitor service delivery and own specialist service delivery and report to line manager..
To be responsible for implementing agreed changes in working practice.
To monitor stock levels in own service area and request new equipment as appropriate.
To be responsible for the security, care and maintenance of equipment ensuring standards of infection control and safety are maintained including equipment loaned to clients.
To gather and collate activity data accurately and regularly, ensuring the provision of such information promptly within local Trust guidelines.
To participate in departmental research and clinical governance/audit projects, collecting and providing research data as required.
To be accountable for own professional action and recognise own professional boundaries.
To work independently within defined departmental and national protocols/policies and professional code of conduct.
To access appraisal within an Individual Performance Framework at pre-determined intervals.
To identify and attend relevant training and development in line with appraisal and service needs relating to clinical specialism.
To keep up to date with new developments within a clinical specialism, at a specialist level, through attendance at relevant CENs and other training.
To have a working knowledge of Clinical Governance and its application to professional practice.
To monitor auditory, visual and kinaesthetic aspects of clients communication and to identify appropriate strategies to facilitate and enhance communicative effectiveness. This may require intense periods of concentration.
Any other duties commensurate with the grade.
This job description gives a general outline of the post and is not intended to be inflexible or a final list of duties. It may therefore be amended from time to time in consultation with the post holder.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Job Title: Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
Division/department: Speech and Language Therapy
REQUIREMENT
ESSENTIAL
DESIRABLE
Education/ Qualifications
1. Registration with Health Professions Council as a speech and language therapist
- Recognised Speech and Language Therapy degree qualification or equivalent
- Registered member of RCSLT
Knowledge & Experience
- Postgraduate experience of assessing, diagnosing and implementing appropriate management plans for children with hearing loss who are using a variety of listening devices, including: cochlear implants; bone anchored aids and hearing aids.
- Postgraduate experience of assessing, diagnosing and implementing appropriate management plans for HL children who are developing spoken communication and/ or are using a variety of communication modes including spoken language, signed supported English and/or BSL.
3. Evidence of continuing professional development and advanced training, e.g. BSL level 1&2, CSD Working with deaf people, CEN attendance, courses developing skills for working with Cochlear Implanted children & their families (e.g. Ear Foundation, AV UK).
- Specialist knowledge of assessment tools relevant to the client group
5. Specialist knowledge of a range of appropriate educational and therapeutic interventions effective for working with children with Hearing loss, their families, and schools that are relevant to the clinical specialism.
6. Knowledge of prioritisation issues within client group
7. Knowledge of national policies and procedures relevant to the client group
8. Knowledge of principles of clinical governance
Skills, Abilities and Attributes
- Demonstrate ability to be a good team member
- Excellent interpersonal skills including observation, listening and empathy skills
- Excellent presentation skills, both written and verbal
- Demonstrate excellent organisational, analytical and reflection skills
- Demonstrates negotiation, conflict resolution and problem solving skills
