Specialist Speech and Language Therapist

• To prioritise and manage a highly complex mainly neurological caseload independently making differential diagnosis & clinical management decisions on the basis of evidence from assessment frequently weighing up complex clinical management decisions in the context of conflicting clinical indicators.
• To analyse auditory, visual and kinaesthetic aspects of client's communication and to identify appropriate strategies to facilitate and enhance communicative effectiveness in the home, at work and other relevant settingso To demonstrate clinical effectiveness by developing and implementing Specialist Speech and Language Therapy Treatment evidence-based practice programmes providing thorough evaluation of clinical outcomes.
• To use clinical judgement and specialist skills to evaluate deterioration in client's health status, communicating effectively to the appropriate professionals in a timely mannero To demonstrate skills in motivating clients and /or carers to engage in the therapeutic process.
• To develop clear multidisciplinary clinical protocols based on best practice. To demonstrate high level of clinical effectiveness by use of evidence-based practice and outcome measures.
• To actively participate and take a lead on SLT Triage for new referrals as required.

Desirable

• Registration with Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
• Evidence of further study e.g. postgraduate degree, short courses relating to community setting

Essential

• Management of neurological and long term conditions
• Assessment & treatment of complex clients with speech, language, communication needs and dysphagia
• Working with carers & MDT
• Writing reports and maintaining case notes
• Delivering and evaluating training
• Management of own caseload
• Applying the principals of research methodology through clinical audit
• Developing reflective clinical practice in self

Desirable

• Member of a relevant CEN
• Experience of working in acute and community settings as well as in nursing homes.
• LSVT training
• Experience of supervising junior members of staff

Essential

• Knowledge of assessment tools relating the neurological/community client group with speech, language, communication and dysphagia needs.
• Knowledge of a range of therapeutic interventions relating to the neurological/community client group with speech, language, communication and dysphagia needs.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written
• Excellent interpersonal skills including observation, listening and empathy
• Ability to work in a less predictable environment and able to prioritise own workload with well-developed concentration skills.
• Good organisation skills
• Able to work as part of a team and remain calm under pressure
• Demonstration of good analytical and reflection skills