Specialist Speech and Language Therapist

Job overview

Are you a qualified SaLT with an interest in forensic mental health? We are a dynamic forensic SaLT team, looking for someone who is eager to learn about working with patients with a learning disability  who are detained under the Mental Health Act. There is lots of scope to develop skills within mental health, learning disabilities / autism and dysphagia.  This role offers the exciting opportunity to work with culturally diverse populations in East London; a chance to challenge the traditional constraints of the communication models in Speech and Language Therapy!

East London Foundation Trust is looking for a HCPC registered Speech and Language Therapist (SaLT), to join the Forensic Inpatient Team for Adults with Learning Disabilities.  Joining a highly skilled and experienced MDT,  interdisciplinary working is an essential part of this role.  You may have had previous experience working with people with learning disabilities or just a passion to develop skills in this area.

The role will provide the right candidate with the opportunity to clinically supervise junior colleagues and students. With excellent opportunities for CPD and line management from within the SaLT department.  The successful candidate will be supported to attain dysphagia competencies.

Main duties of the job

The role of the Speech and Language Therapist is offering communication and dysphagia support to patients on a medium secure LD forensic ward within the John Howard Centre.

The SaLT will work alongside MDT colleagues to contribute to a clinical understanding of the patients needs; with a view to supporting their access to therapy and treatment and reintegrating them into community life.

This will be done through the offer of assessment, therapy, adaptation to the communication environment, training and input around MCA assessments. Alongside the effective screening, identification and management of risk related to swallowing disorders.  Work with MDT colleagues, external agencies and family are a key part of this role.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To independently assess, diagnose and provide specialist treatment and advice to adults with learning disabilities with a range of communication needs within the Forensic Learning Disabilities / Autism Service.

To maintain appropriate records in line with Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists guidelines.

To continually develop and evaluate clinical practice, and achieve goals set for personal and professional development.

To identify, plan, deliver and evaluate specialist training.

To provide specialist clinical support to other Speech and Language Therapists, assistants, students and volunteers.

To be involved in clinical governance/audit projects within local service.

To act as clinical resource in issues relating to the specialist area of people with learning disability in a forensic setting.

To hold a specialist caseload of adults with learning disabilities / Autism in a forensic setting.

To assess and manage a dysphagia caseload, or work towards these competencies if required by the service.

To be professionally and legally accountable for all aspects of professional and clinical work, working to agreed local, national, and professional standards.

In addition to this the post holder will provide specialist advice to the Trust and support the organisation through the provision of resources, training, and education