Speech and Language Therapist

We are an award winning organisation providing care at two main hospital sites-Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and West Middlesex University Hospital-and a number of community based services across London, such as sexual health and HIV clinics. With 6,700 members of staff, we care for a diverse population of one million people. We are committed to ensuring that our workforce is just as diverse with a strong mix of skills and abilities. Our staff are at the very heart of our organisation and we recognise the valuable contribution that each and every person working at the Trust makes. One of our Trust priorities is to be an employer of choice-a place where people want to start their career and to grow with us through continued education, professional development and support.

The post holder will be expected to manage a complex caseload independently, providing second opinions and advice for junior staff when required. They will work as part of a multi disciplinary team and will be expected to contribute to collaborative working with patients, carers, and colleagues, the voluntary sector and Social Services in regards to the planning and delivery of care.

The post holder will participate in team meetings, working parties and contribute to departmental / team audits. They will be required to deliver training within the hospital setting to other professionals, patients and carers. They will contribute to training and support of junior staff members.

To provide highly specialist SLT input to adult inpatients on the acute wards, burns unit and Intensive Care Unit, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

To analyse complex medical information, identify differential diagnosis and implement appropriate SLT assessment and treatment / management for patients with a range of swallowing and communication disorders, including care of patients with a tracheostomy.

To ensure patients are involved in the planning and prioritisation of their care, as appropriate.

To participate in multidisciplinary tracheostomy management, as appropriate.

To participate in, and/ or lead videofluoroscopy clinic, as appropriate. This includes reviewing referrals for suitability, timely completion of reports and ensuring that clinical practice adheres to standards set by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapy.

• Putting patients first
• Responsive to patients and staff
• Open and honest
• Unfailingly kind
• Determined to develop

• Qualified Speech and Language Therapist
• Current HCPC registration
• Current RCSLT registration
• 4 years postgraduate experience relevant to the post
• Member of clinical interest group and / or network, relevant to the post

• Experience providing complex specialist dysphagia assessment and management
• Level 3 Videofluoroscopy competencies / relevant overseas training or framework
• RCSLT Tracheostomy competencies / overseas competency training or framework
• Experience working within a Multidisciplinary Team
• Experience with service development and audit
• Experience providing teaching and training for members of the MDT, patients, families etc.
• Experience using evidence based practice and outcome measures

• Highly specialist knowledge of SLT assessment and management for complex swallowing disorders within an adult population
• Highly specialist knowledge of SLT assessment and management for complex communication disorders within an adult population
• Understanding of NHS policies relevant to SLT and the value of clinical governance
• Ability to take responsibility for own clinical work from referral through to discharge
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
• Ability to identify and assess risk accordingly
• Ability to communicate effectively in a highly emotive clinical setting.
• Ability to demonstrate an evidence based approach to clinical practice
• Ability to communicate effectively with adults of all ages and abilities
• Ability to cope with stressful working situations, including challenging behaviour
• Excellent organisational skills
• Excellent written and oral, reporting and presentation skills

• Awareness of and maintenance of, personal and professional boundaries
• Ability to maintain concentration for prolonged periods of time

Some roles may require weekend shifts at multiple sites. Employment is subject to a six month probationary period.

We are committed to equal opportunities and believe diversity drives innovation and excellence.