Children's Speech Language Therapist

NHS; Taunton; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Taunton seeks a dedicated Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist. The role involves delivering therapy services to children, conducting assessments, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. Candidates should possess a recognised degree in Speech and Language Therapy and relevant registrations. Benefits include flexible working options and substantial career development opportunities.

Benefits

Flexible working options

NHS pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Career development focus

Access to Blue Light Card for discounts

Qualifications

• HPC registration and RCSLT registration required.
• Experience of a range of placements in Speech Language Therapy.
• Post-graduate experience in Speech Language Therapy is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Deliver Speech and Language Therapy services to children aged 0-19.
• Conduct assessments and develop therapy plans.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and provide emotional support.

Skills

Experience of Speech Language Therapy during studies

Knowledge of current Educational issues

Ability to drive or mobility

Education

Recognised Degree in Speech and Language Therapy

Job description

Job Summary

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people (CYP) with speech, language and communication difficulties.

You will be based in one of our area teams, each comprising 6‑10 Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Therapy Support Practitioners, and excellent administrative support. While your base will be local, travel across the county will be required for meetings, training, and to meet caseload needs.

We welcome applications from both Newly Qualified and Experienced Therapists, and are happy to consider part‑time working arrangements.

Benefits

• A structured induction programme
• Regular supervision from experienced clinicians
• Opportunities to contribute to service development and specialist interest groups
• A varied caseload across early years and school‑aged children
• Work in diverse settings including clinics, schools, and family homes

Main Duties

• Deliver Speech and Language Therapy services to CYP aged 0‑19 with speech, language and/or communication impairments.
• Independently assess, diagnose, and develop care plans for clients.
• Provide therapy in clinic, schools, and homes, building strong relationships with families and educational staff.
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including OT, PT and education professionals.
• Offer training and support to parents, carers and school staff.
• Participate in service development, CPD activities and special interest groups.
• Supervise Therapy Support Practitioners and contribute to student training.

About Us

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we are committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life.

• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long‑term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you will gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining and leisure activities, as well as NHS‑specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.

We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away – and only two hours to London.

The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it is a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all – the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Details

• Date posted: 05 November 2025
• Pay scheme: Agenda for change
• Band: Band 5

Salary

£31,049 to £37,796 a year

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full‑time

Reference Number

184‑OL‑GR‑3600

Job Location

Parkgate House, East Reach, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 3ES

Job Responsibilities

• Carry a caseload of CYP with speech, language and communication needs.
• Conduct initial assessments and provide ongoing therapy.
• Use a range of communication strategies tailored to individual needs.
• Involve families in therapy planning and goal setting.
• Provide input into EHCPs and attend relevant meetings and reviews.
• Liaise with referrers, families and professionals across health and education.
• Refer to specialist services when appropriate.
• Promote understanding of SLT through training and outreach.
• Attend mandatory and specialist training.
• Engage in service evaluation and research initiatives.
• Contribute to departmental meetings and Trust‑wide activities.
• Travel across Somerset for caseload and meetings.
• Maintain equipment and ensure safe use.
• Adhere to Trust policies including safeguarding, confidentiality and infection control.
• Supervise support staff and students.
• Provide emotional support to families and colleagues when needed.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications

• Recognised Degree or equivalent in Speech and Language Therapy; HPC registration and RCSLT registration

Essential Experience

• Experience of Speech Language Therapy at undergraduate level.
• Experience of range of placements.

Desirable Experience

• Post‑graduate experience of Speech Language Therapy.

Additional Criteria

• Car driver or otherwise mobile with appropriate business insurance.
• Up‑to‑date theoretical knowledge.
• Knowledge of current Educational and National Curriculum issues.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer Details

Employer Name

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Parkgate House, East Reach, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 3ES

Employer Website

https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)