Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
The closing date is 17 February 2026
Job summary
To provide an effective and evidenced-based Speech & Language service to adult in-patients with communication and / or swallowing difficulties within the critical care, medical and surgical settings. This will include patients on ventilators and with tracheostomy tubes in-situ. The post-holder will be expected to co-ordinate seamlessly with other SLT teams within the Trust to provide prompt and timely management of acute patients, according to the demand of services. The post holder will work as a highly specialist, autonomous practitioner, independently prioritising and managing an in-patient caseload. The role will also have responsibility for overseeing the management of caseloads of more junior members of staff within the SLT department. Participation in the development and monitoring of the SLT service to medicine, surgery will be required. The post-holder will also be expected to continue to develop their specialist skills and to deputise for the Principal SLT as requested. Supervision / management of other SLT teams during periods of sickness / annual leave will also be required.
Main duties of the job
To provide a highly specialist evidence-based Speech & Language Therapy service to critical care, medical and surgical wards for patients with communication and/or swallowing difficulties, including patients who are ventilated and have tracheostomy tubes in-situ. Close collaboration with other members of the department and the MDT is essential.
To demonstrate specialist knowledge in the clinical area of dysphagia and acquired conditions underpinned by current evidence-based practice and outcome measures.
To demonstrate a high level of clinical knowledge and skill in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with complex, acquired communication and swallowing disorders, seeking advice and in discussion with the Principal SLT as required.
To provide specialist training and supervision to less experienced SLTs on the management of ventilator and tracheostomy patients.
To demonstrate a high level of clinical knowledge of the management of patients on ventilation and with tracheostomies, seeking advice from other clinical specialists, including the Principal SLT as required.
To provide training to the MDT on the management of communication and swallowing difficulties.
About us
Developmentand staff wellbeing
Your growthand personal happinessmattersto us.After all, we can't expect the best from you if we don't invest in your development and nurture your wellbeing.From the moment you join us, we're committed to fostering your professional and personal development within a supportive, empowering environment. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to advance further, we provide you with the tools and opportunities you need to succeed.We actively support colleagues to take part in research, quality improvement and innovation, whatever their role or level in the organisation.
To support your wellbeing, we offer an extensive range of resources, including an on-site staff nursery at Kingston Hospital, wellbeing practitioners, regular wellbeing classes, dedicated staff physiotherapist, comprehensive occupational health services, 24/7 employee assistance programme, and a range of other support and activities.
We also take every opportunity to thank and recognise the work our teams do, through weekly 'shoutouts' and patient feedback, monthly and annual awards.
Wherever you work across our organisation, we look forward to welcoming you.
At KRFT we are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements. Applicants are encouraged to discuss any flexibility they may need during the recruitment process.
Details
Date posted
03 February 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 7
Salary
£53,751 to £60,651 a year Pro rata pa. incl. HCAS
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
396-7732200-DE-GV-Z
Job locations
Kingston Hospital
Galsworthy Road
Norbiton
KT2 7QB
Employer details
Employer name
Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Kingston Hospital
Galsworthy Road
Norbiton
KT2 7QB
Employer's website
https://www.kingstonandrichmond.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)
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Employer contact details
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Supporting documents
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