Speech and Language Therapy Assistant

Guy's and St Thomas' is among the UK's busiest and most successful NHS foundation trusts. We provide a full range of hospital and community services for people in south London and as well as specialist care for patients from further afield including cancer, renal, orthopaedic, respiratory and cardiovascular services.

We have a reputation for clinical excellence and high quality teaching and research. Patients are at the heart of everything we do and we pride ourselves on ensuring the best possible patient experience as well as safe, high quality care. The commitment of our 23,500 staff is key to our success.

An exciting position has arisen within our acute Speech and Language Therapy team at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. We are looking for a pro-active, enthusiastic team-player to join our busy department, based at St Thomas' Hospital, in a Band 3 Assistant role.

You will join a friendly and supportive team, dedicated to delivering high-quality multidisciplinary care to adult inpatients with communication and/or swallowing difficulties. The majority of the role sits within the Stroke service, however daily input across the entire hospital is required, therefore suitable applicants will be organised and flexible within a varied working day and will enjoy a fast-paced working environment.

Due to the complex nature of the patients we work with, applicants will need to demonstrate a compassionate and caring nature, with excellent communication skills. The position involves independent working (following appropriate in-house training) and the ability to problem-solve everyday issues. You would provide therapy in one-to-one and group sessions. The post is also responsible for some administration support and creation of resources for the team. Some experience of working within a therapy team would be beneficial, and previous healthcare or education experience is essential.

Main duties of the job:

• To work as a Speech and Language Therapy assistant under the direction and supervision of a Speech and Language Therapist (SLT).
• To carry out therapy programmes designed by SLTs with patients who have communication or swallowing disorders, working with individual patients or with groups as appropriate.
• To design and develop appropriate low-tech communication and therapy aids with the support of SLTs.
• To assist in the provision of a high-quality speech and language therapy service to patients within the Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital Trust and to undertake duties, including some administration, to support the smooth functioning of the department and service.

Qualifications/ Education:

• Completed appropriate NVQ Level 3 or Part 1 City and Guilds certificate (with prior healthcare experience) or assessed satisfactory completion of an equivalent training course OR Relevant experience in a healthcare or education setting.

Skills/Knowledge/ Ability:

• Demonstrates a basic knowledge of the role of the speech and language therapist and SLT assistant.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage time effectively and organise and prioritise tasks effectively.
• Ability to communicate at all levels both verbally and in writing.

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.