At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Speech and Language Therapists with patients and administrative tasks.
- Company: Join a friendly NHS team at Darent Valley Hospital, close to London.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, CPD opportunities, and a higher cost of living supplement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and experience in healthcare or customer service required.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 27000 £ per year.
Job Summary
The Adult Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) team at Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford are excited to recruit a permanent part-time (up to 22.5 hours p/w) Band 3 Speech and Language Therapy Assistant (SLTA). The hospital is situated within easy commuting distance from central London by car or train, with included higher cost of living supplement. We pride ourselves in being a friendly, proactive and flexible team.
The new appointee will be an integral member of the DVH Adult SLT Team, working with the inpatient and outpatient SLT teams across the hospital. The post holder will be able to access regular support from the SLT team members including the Stroke SLTA and the SLT admin Lead. We would also encourage the member to consider joining the SLTA national clinical excellence network.
Main duties of the job
The role will focus on supporting SLT staff working with people with communication and swallowing disorders, including working directly with patients in basic clinical tasks. The successful candidate will also provide some administrative support to the Speech and Language Therapists.
The post holder will have experience of working within a healthcare setting, with sound administration skills, as well as basic clinical skills. Insight into or knowledge of Speech and Language Therapy is desirable.
There are CPD opportunities within the SLT teams, and we will support the appointee with developing relevant competencies.
If you are interested in this varied and stimulating role and would like further information, please email or telephone 01322 428593 to discuss the post further.
We would be very pleased to hear from you.
About Us
We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse employer. We strive to employ people who reflect the communities we serve, and aim to create an inclusive culture where everyone can reach their full potential. Whatever your race, ethnicity, belief, generation, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, disability or experience, you\’ll appreciate the opportunities we give you to work in an inclusive atmosphere. We welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences to build on the progress we\’ve achieved to make our Trust diverse and the best place to work. We celebrate the diversity of thought, viewpoints and ideas that help us overcome challenges and embrace new possibilities. We have signed the Armed Forces Covenant Pledge and have a commitment to the Armed Forces Community.
If you are considering applying for a role, please be aware that as an NHS Employee you may have contact with vulnerable service users. We strongly encourage that all our staff are vaccinated against COVID-19 and are vaccinated annually against Flu, in order to protect the health and safety of our staff and patients. Your commitment will help us to put the safety and care of our patients first, as well as helping us to protect you and your colleagues.
Details
Date posted
15 August 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£26,240 to £27,928 a year Incl HCAS per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Part-time
Reference number
252-7374332-A
Job locations
Darent Valley Hospital
Darenth Wood Road
Dartford
DA2 8DA
Job Description
Job responsibilities
For a detailed description of the Job roles and responsibilities please see the attached job description.
Job Description
Job responsibilities
For a detailed description of the Job roles and responsibilities please see the attached job description.
Person Specification
Education
Essential
- English Language GCSE (or equivalent) and general education to GCSE level/ NVQ Level 3
Experience
Essential
- Previous experience of working face to face with the general public
- Previous experience of working in a clinical environment
Desirable
- Previous experience in NHS or in a care environment
- Previous clerical/secretarial experience
- Previous experience in an SLT environment
Knowledge and Interest
Essential
- Interest in health & wellbeing
- Interest in human communication
Desirable
- Basic understanding of the role of Speech & Language Therapy
- Basic understanding of the impacts of a communication and /or swallowing impairment
- Understanding of basic medical terminology
Person Specification
Education
Essential
- Interest in health & wellbeing
- Interest in human communication
Desirable
- Basic understanding of the role of Speech & Language Therapy
- Basic understanding of the impacts of a communication and /or swallowing impairment
- Understanding of basic medical terminology
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.
Employer details
Employer name
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust
Address
Darent Valley Hospital
Darenth Wood Road
Dartford
DA2 8DA
Employer\’s website
https://www.dgt.nhs.uk/working-for-us (Opens in a new tab)
Employer details
Employer name
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust
Address
Darent Valley Hospital
Darenth Wood Road
Dartford
DA2 8DA
Employer\’s website
https://www.dgt.nhs.uk/working-for-us (Opens in a new tab)
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Speech and Language Therapy Assistant employer: Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust
Contact Detail:
Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapy Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant. Understanding the role will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Speech and Language Therapy Assistants, especially those who have worked in the NHS. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even offer tips on how to stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider volunteering or shadowing in a healthcare setting if you haven't already. This experience can enhance your understanding of patient interactions and demonstrate your commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust and their values. Tailoring your approach to reflect their commitment to inclusivity and diversity can show that you are a good cultural fit for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapy Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Speech and Language Therapy Assistant position. Highlight your relevant experience in healthcare and any knowledge of Speech and Language Therapy.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job. Emphasise your previous clinical experience, administrative skills, and any direct interactions with patients, as these are crucial for this role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for health and wellbeing, as well as your interest in human communication. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential in a healthcare setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Communication
Make sure to express your genuine interest in health and wellbeing, as well as human communication. Share any relevant experiences or insights you have about the importance of effective communication, especially in a clinical setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Clinical Experience
Highlight your previous experience working in a clinical environment. Be prepared to discuss specific tasks you've performed and how they relate to the role of a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, particularly in supporting patients with communication and swallowing disorders.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SLT Basics
Brush up on basic medical terminology and the role of Speech and Language Therapy. Showing that you have a foundational understanding of these concepts will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your readiness to learn more.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the team dynamics, opportunities for professional development, or how the hospital supports its staff in providing care to vulnerable service users.