Go back Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Lead Speech and Language Therapist
The closing date is 12 November 2026
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a B7 Lead SLT to join our inpatient Mental Health Service for Older People in Durham and Tees Valley. This will be leading a small team working across the MHSOP inpatient provision and linking in with clinical networks, pathway development and service development.
The post holder will be part of a dynamic SLT Mental Health and Learning Disability service, with well-defined peer support, supervision systems and extensive CPD alongside opportunities to shape the SLT service as part of the clinical leadership team.
This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. However, sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements, therefore, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. Visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Main duties of the job
The role of the Lead Speech & Language Therapist will be to assess and treat communication difficulties and problems with eating, drinking and swallowing (dysphagia) for our older adult inpatients. As a Senior SLT the post holder will carry their own autonomous caseload, supervise and mentor SLT colleagues and support the practice and learning of professionals within the wider MDT. The post holder will also be part of the leadership team and be responsible for service development in their specialty.
The successful applicant will have significant experience of working with adults with dementia, autism, mental health difficulties, challenging behaviour and/or complex needs. Knowledge of relevant national policy and local directives is essential. Competence in the assessment and treatment of eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties is highly desirable. Most important is an enthusiasm for working with this client group and a passion to improve the lives of the people we support.
About us
We are the Mental Health & Learning Disability NHS Trust for County Durham and Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York and Selby.
From education and prevention, to crisis and specialist care --our talented and compassionate teams work in partnership with our patients, communities and partners to help the people of our region feel safe, understood, believed in and cared for.
We nurture the recovery journey of anyone in need of our help. In Our Trust, everyone has a say in how they are supported and treated because we listen to every person in our care until they feel understood. Our patients, their families and carers work together with us towards better mental health.
We're committed to new thinking that improves the wellbeing of our region. We connect with our communities and partners to get mental health care right, in areas that really need it.
We won't rest until everyone in our region has the mental health care they need, to lead their best possible life.
Job responsibilities
Applicants for the post will hold a suitable qualification in Speech and Language Therapy, have relevant experience in this clinical field and have a particular interest and enthusiasm for leadership, service delivery, collaborative working and championing SLT.
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for further detailed information to ensure that you meet the role criteria before applying.
For informal discussion please contact:Sam Bradley, Professional Head of Speech and Language Therapy sam.bradley@nhs.net
Qualifications/Experience
- Pre-registration qualification in speech and language therapy as recognised by HCPC)
- Registration with HCPC.
- Evidence of post-registration Masters level learning
- Or in the absence of masters level learning - Equivalent experience in relevant area. E.g. relevant level 7 courses, researcher role, quality improvement activity, leading service development, project management, strategic leadership, NICE involvement, service evaluation.
- Substantial clinical experience of complex speech and language therapy delivery in relevant specialist area in collaboration with service users, families and relevant others.
- Experience of working in Multidisciplinary Team (SW essential criteria)
- Complex clinical risk assessment and application in practice
Knowledge
- Significant experience of supporting people with mental health issues, learning disability or autism
- Significant understanding of the needs of service users with mental health conditions or learning disabilities or autism.
- Substantial knowledge of evidence- based practice in speech and language therapy
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.
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Lead Speech and Language Therapist employer: Tewv
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to nurturing the recovery journey of individuals in need of mental health support. With a strong commitment to collaborative care, our work culture fosters compassion and inclusivity, ensuring that every employee has a voice in shaping patient experiences. Located in a region that values mental health, we offer robust professional development opportunities and a supportive environment where staff can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
