Clinical Lead -Speech & Language Therapist – Adult Learning Disability

To provide clinical leadership and highly specialist speech and language therapy (SLT) services to adults with complex learning disabilities, some of whom have physical disabilities and/or autism.

To provide high quality clinical diagnoses, assessment and interventions for communication and swallowing difficulties using a holistic, person-centred approach.

To be an autonomous practitioner, holding a small mixed clinical caseload of those with dysphagia and communication needs, working without direct supervision within the context of a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) supporting various clinical pathways.

To be responsible for the clinical leadership, development, training and supervision of SLT staff and students within the Shropshire CLDT.

To assist and deputise for the Allied Health Professional Lead in relation to Speech and Language Therapy clinical and professional issues.

1. Be professionally accountable for all aspects of own work, including caseload management and direct clinical care. To work within the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and Health and Care Professionals Councils (HCPC) standards.

2. Obtain and record informed consent from clients at each contact in accordance with Trust policy.

3. Carry out comprehensive specialist Speech and language therapy assessments for clients with complex learning and physical health needs. Interpret clinical information and data related to clinical parameters along with non-clinical information and use clinical reasoning skills to accurately diagnose and develop specific treatment plans.

4. Provide specialist advice to other professionals or single assessments to meet clients holistic care needs across various pathways e.g. dysphagia, communication, positive behaviour support, memory service.

5. Formulate and deliver individual treatment plans based on specialist knowledge, evidence-based practise, national and local guidelines using profession-specific clinical skills and techniques. (E.g. 1:1 interventions, carer education, patient education).

6. Maintain and share up-to-date knowledge of Speech and language therapy assessment and intervention evidence-base developments for this client group.

7. Maintain and share up to date knowledge of instrumental assessment available and to be able to signpost to services who assess and provide this and/or assist in accessing and delivery of these services supporting individuals with learning disability.

8. Contribute to the multi-disciplinary clinical referrals, assessment and discharge planning process and onward referral as required.

9. Prioritise urgent or unexpected or planned referrals, adjusting caseloads and allocations to meet revised needs.

10. Undertake other duties when requested by professional or operational managers.

11. Maintain a professional portfolio to demonstrate competency to practice and which meets the requirements of professional registration.

12. Demonstrate the ability to facilitate team working across organisational boundaries and with healthcare professionals outside of the Trust.

Come and work with us at our award-winning NHS Trust, leading the way for trying new and better ways of working to help improve life for our local communities.

We have around 9,000 staff who provide physical and mental healthcare, support for people with learning disabilities, and adult social care across Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin. We also run regional and national services, including help for new parents (perinatal care), eating disorders, forensic services, sexual health, and support for people in prison with mental health, drug, or alcohol problems.

We offer great career development for both clinical and non-clinical roles, with ongoing training and support to help you learn and grow.

We are 'United in our Uniqueness' and committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and can be themselves, no matter their background or identity. We want our staff to feel supported and valued, and we aim to build a team that reflects the communities we serve. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard, and every difference is respected.

Please note, we may be required to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications

Please be aware that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in completing application forms will be monitored to ensure fairness and transparency. If you have used AI you must state this in your application.

Qualifications & Training

Essential: - Degree in Speech and language therapy; - Unrestricted registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC); - Extensive post registration experience

Experience

Desirable: - Clinical and professional leadership experience

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

Essential: - Leading and supporting staff; - Evidence of CPD

Other

Essential: - Able to travel to meet the needs of the role Trust-wide; - Willing to undertake Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at Enhanced level