Specialist Speech and Language Therapist(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated and skilled Band 6 Speech and Language Therapist to join our Community Learning Disability Service (CLDS). This role provides an exciting opportunity to work with adults with learning disabilities, supporting communication, eating and drinking, and access to inclusive care.
You will be an integral part of a multidisciplinary service and contribute to a wider network of Speech and Language Therapy across learning disability services in ELFT. The post holder will manage a caseload, carry out assessments and interventions, and participate in service development and quality improvement initiatives.
About CLDS
The Community Learning Disability Service is an integrated health and social care service, structured around three core care pathways:
- Transition – supporting young people moving into adult services
- Community Health & Wellbeing – promoting physical health and quality of life
- Mental Health & Behavioural Support – addressing psychological and behavioural challenges
- You will work flexibly across these pathways, ensuring therapy is person-centred, evidence-based, and tailored to individual needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct specialist assessments and deliver speech and language therapy interventions for adults with learning disabilities
- Support individuals with complex communication needs, including AAC, signing, and symbol systems
- Assess and manage dysphagia (eating and drinking difficulties) in line with best practice
- Provide guidance and advice to families, carers, and other professionals
- Conduct eligibility assessments for referrals into CLDS and participate in core service functions such as Duty
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across health, social care, and voluntary services
- Participate in service development projects, research, and audits
- Ensure therapy input aligns with current evidence-based practice and national guidance
Person Specification
Qualifications & Registration
Essential:
Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Communication Studies from an RCSLT-approved programme RCSLT
- Current HCPC registration with licence to practice HCPC
- Membership of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
- Clinical experience in communication assessment and therapy, including AAC
Desirable:
- Post-basic qualification in dysphagia
- Training in student supervision
Experience
Essential:
- At least 18 months post-registration clinical experience working with adults and/or children with learning disabilities
- Experience with physical, sensory, or mental health co-morbidities
- Skilled in using electronic clinical record systems for documentation and outcome monitoring
Desirable:
- Experience supervising junior SLTs or students
- Participation in research, audit, or service development initiatives
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong clinical expertise across communication and dysphagia difficulties
- Excellent verbal and written communication, with sensitivity in emotionally challenging situations
- Ability to adapt communication strategies to cognitive, linguistic, and cultural needs
- Knowledge of current legislation and government policy affecting adults with learning disabilities
- Familiarity with current models of treatment and inclusive practice
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams
- Commitment to person-centred, evidence-based practice
Safeguarding & Right to Work
- This role requires an enhanced DBS check DBS checks
- Skilled Worker visa sponsorship may be considered for eligible applicants Skilled Worker Visa
- Applicants must hold current UK professional registration NHS Careers
Why Join ELFT?
East London NHS Foundation Trust is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the people and communities we serve. Our values We Care, We Respect, We Are Inclusive—guide everything we do.
Joining our team means contributing to a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive service, with opportunities for professional growth and involvement in innovative service development.
