At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our head and neck oncology team, providing specialist speech and language therapy.
- Company: Be part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while working in a supportive, diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant degree, HCPC registration, and experience with dysphagia management.
- Other info: Flexible shift patterns may be required to meet patient needs.
The predicted salary is between 44806 - 53134 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for 2 Specialist Speech and Language Therapists to join our well-established head and neck oncology team rotating between the acute and community settings. We are looking for 2 Band 6 Speech and Language Therapists with specialist skills in the management of adults with acquired disorders of communication and swallowing, including management of patients with a tracheostomy and with experience of working with patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. You will ideally be competent in undertaking videofluoroscopy, and knowledge and experience of interpreting and reporting FEES is desirable. You will also have a proven track record of working as a specialist speech and language therapist within a multidisciplinary team, and will have experience of delivering training and student supervision.
Main duties of the job
- To provide a high quality specialist service to adult in-patients and out-patients referred mainly from the ENT, Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery and Oncology departments at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals with communication and/or swallowing disorders.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
- In collaboration with senior therapists based on the Guy's site or in the CHANT team to provide independent, specialist clinical management of in-patients and outpatients with disorders of swallowing and communication.
- To maintain close liaison with referring medical staff and nurse specialists to ensure optimum treatment and support for patients after laryngectomy/SVR and other head and neck surgery.
- To utilise a high level of interpersonal skills in helping patients adapt to changed circumstances/disability.
- To independently carry out and analyse videofluoroscopic examinations of swallow.
- To participate in the Surgical Voice Restoration clinics at Guy's Hospital.
Person specification
- Qualifications/Education/Registration
- Diploma/Degree leading to RCSLT licence to practice and registered member of HCPC.
- Post-graduate dysphagia training leading to independent practice.
- Post graduate experience of working with adults with acquired dysphagia.
- Demonstrable experience of working with a specialist caseload of patients with a diagnosis of head and neck cancer.
- Experience of working as an integrated member of an MDT.
- Experience of supervising Students.
- Experience of working with patients with a tracheostomy and altered airways.
- Able to demonstrate a high level of competence in dysphagia management.
- Able to demonstrate knowledge of SVR management including awareness of risk management.
- Able to demonstrate ability to carry out and interpret video-fluoroscopy.
Guy's and St Thomas' celebrates, respects and values the diversity of its staff and patients. We review our policies, procedures and practices to ensure that all employees, patients and carers are treated equitably according to their needs. As an organisation we are committed to developing our services in ways that best suit the needs of our patients. This means that some staff groups will increasingly be asked to work a more flexible shift pattern so that we can offer services in the evenings or at weekends.
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Specialist Speech and Language Therapist employer: Guys & St Thomas Hospital
Contact Detail:
Guys & St Thomas Hospital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the role, especially regarding dysphagia management and tracheostomy care. Highlight any relevant experience you have in these areas during your conversations with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. They can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with multidisciplinary teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've collaborated with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes, as this is a key aspect of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest practices in speech and language therapy, particularly in head and neck oncology. Being knowledgeable about recent advancements can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in speech and language therapy, particularly with adults suffering from communication and swallowing disorders. Emphasise any specific training or qualifications related to dysphagia management and head and neck oncology.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the NHS. Mention your experience with multidisciplinary teams and your ability to work independently. Be sure to address how your skills align with the requirements listed in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your previous roles that involved working with patients with head and neck cancer, tracheostomy care, and videofluoroscopy. Provide specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Specialist Speech and Language Therapist position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a healthcare setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guys & St Thomas Hospital
✨Showcase Your Clinical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with dysphagia management and how you've handled complex cases, especially those involving head and neck cancer. Highlight specific examples where you successfully implemented treatment plans.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, share experiences that illustrate your ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals. Mention any training or supervision roles you've undertaken.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about videofluoroscopy and FEES interpretation. Brush up on your knowledge and be ready to explain your approach to conducting these assessments and how you use the results in patient care.
✨Emphasise Patient-Centred Care
Discuss how you adapt your communication strategies to meet the needs of patients with altered airways or disabilities. Share anecdotes that demonstrate your interpersonal skills and commitment to patient support.