Clinical Lead Speech and Language Therapist Neurodisability Dysphagia

NHS Jobs; Peterlee; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

NHS Jobs in Peterlee is seeking a Clinical Lead Speech and Language Therapist specialising in neurodisability and paediatric dysphagia. You will undertake specialist assessment, develop care plans with families and schools, and lead a team to deliver high-quality services.

In this senior post you will contribute to service development, audit, and training, while ensuring compliant records and evidence-based practice across health, education and social care partners.

Job description

Clinical Lead Speech and Language Therapist Neurodisability Dysphagia

Undertake highly specialist assessment, diagnosis and management of children and young people (0-18 years) presenting with complex speech, language, communication and/or eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties. Provides specialist assessment and management of paediatric dysphagia, including participation in Videofluoroscopy Swallow Studies (VFSS). Develop, implement and review evidence-based care plans in partnership with children, families, carers, schools and multidisciplinary colleagues. Manage a specialist caseload independently, prioritising clinical need and service demands. Provide specialist advice, consultation and second opinions regarding complex clinical cases. Maintain accurate, timely and legally compliant clinical records and reports. Lead and contribute to development of clinical pathways and service models within Children's Speech and Language Therapy. Identify opportunities to improve quality, access, effectiveness and patient experience. Support implementation of national guidance, professional standards and local policies. Advise service leads regarding service pressures, workforce requirements and emerging clinical priorities. Contribute to operational and strategic planning within Children's Therapies. Provide specialist training for colleagues, families, education staff and partner agencies. Deliver clinical supervision, support and mentorship to speech and language therapists, assistant practitioners and students. Promote a culture of reflective practice, lifelong learning and continuous professional development. Support competency development within specialist clinical pathways. Participate in and lead audit, service evaluation and quality improvement activity. Contribute to research and innovation projects relevant to Children's Speech and Language Therapy. Monitor clinical outcomes and use data to support service improvement. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current evidence, legislation and professional guidance. Work collaboratively with professionals across health, education, social care and voluntary sector organisations. Develop effective working relationships that support integrated care and improve outcomes for children and families. Represent Children's Speech and Language Therapy within multidisciplinary and multiagency forums.