Locum Band 5 Children's Community Speech and Language Therapist

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Assessment and Intervention:

• Assess and diagnose speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders in children and young people.
• Provide direct therapy interventions to children in a variety of settings, including home, school, and community.
• Develop individual treatment plans, setting goals and objectives to meet the needs of the child.
• Deliver evidence-based interventions to improve speech, language, and communication skills, including social communication and fluency.

Family and Carer Support:

• Educate and support parents and caregivers in the management of their child's communication difficulties.
• Offer guidance and training to family members on communication strategies and home-based interventions.
• Promote family-centred practice and ensure the views of families are central to assessment and intervention planning.

Collaboration with Multi-Disciplinary Teams:

• Work collaboratively with other professionals, including teachers, social workers, occupational therapists, and healthcare providers, to ensure an integrated approach to care.
• Attend multi-disciplinary meetings, case reviews, and clinical supervision sessions.
• Contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and other relevant documentation as required.

Record Keeping and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date clinical records in line with professional standards and organisational policies.
• Prepare written reports for parents, schools, and other agencies involved in the child's care.
• Monitor and review the progress of individual children and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Training and Development:

• Participate in regular supervision and reflective practice sessions.
• Take part in professional development activities, including in-service training and workshops.
• Supervise and support junior staff, student placements, and/or assistants where applicable.

Safeguarding and Compliance:

• Adhere to safeguarding procedures and report concerns as per local policies.
• Ensure all clinical practice is carried out in accordance with Trust and national guidelines and policies.
• Follow infection control and health and safety regulations at all times.

Qualifications and Experience:

Essential:

• Degree or equivalent in Speech and Language Therapy.
• Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Previous experience (e.g., placements, volunteering, or relevant clinical experience) working with children, preferably within community or early years settings.
• Understanding of the typical developmental milestones in speech, language, and communication.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently when required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable:

• Experience in working with children with a variety of speech and language disorders, including autism, developmental language disorder, and speech sound disorders.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, including safeguarding, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), and the Children Act.
• Experience of working within a multi-disciplinary team.

Key Skills:

Clinical Skills: Ability to assess, diagnose, and treat a range of communication disorders in children.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for working with children, families, and professionals.

Organisation: Ability to manage a caseload and prioritise tasks effectively.

Adaptability: Flexibility to work in different environments and with a diverse group of children and families.

Empathy and Compassion: Ability to build rapport with children, families, and caregivers, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.

Additional Information:

• The post holder will be expected to manage their own caseload and work autonomously, while also seeking guidance and support when necessary.
• The role may involve travel within the local community, so access to a car or reliable transport is desirable.
• This is a locum post, with flexibility in working hours, but with a commitment to service delivery in a timely and professional manner.