Job responsibilities Detailed job description and main responsibilities To demonstrate specialist knowledge within this clinical specialism, underpinned by current evidence based practice. To manage a complex and specialist caseload independently demonstrating evidence of sound clinical judgment and outcome measures. To reflect on practice with peers and identify strengths and needs. To provide specialist second opinions and advice to more junior colleagues and other professionals in the field. To write appropriate reports and case notes, reflecting specialist knowledge. To communicate verbally and in writing with client/carer, assessment findings, diagnosis and therapy intervention plan reflecting specialist knowledge. This will include breaking bad news in a sensitive manner e.g. explaining to a stroke patient why they may not ever be able to eat or drink again. To negotiate with clients/other professionals around case management and to recognise potential breakdown and conflict when it occurs and resolve. To employ negotiation skills in the management of conflict across a range of situations. To deal with initial complaints sensitively, avoiding escalation where possible. To employ excellent communication and advocacy skills to enable clients/carers to access statutory agencies and exercise statutory rights eg enabling patient and solicitor to understand each other. To attend and contribute to relevant Speech and Language Therapy Team meetings and lead in small team projects. To take a proactive role in team-building within multidisciplinary teams. To supervise and plan time-table and work for assistants and volunteers. To take responsibility for day-to-day operational management of staff groups. To take the lead on inter-agency team-working. To represent the SLT department in meetings with other agencies e.g. Stroke services, as requested. To contribute to the induction and support system for new staff. To mentor, supervise and provide leadership to junior Speech and Language Therapists. To provide full student Speech and Language Therapy placement. To advise line manager on issues of service delivery including shortfall, service pressures etc. To discuss with line manager options for caseload management. To monitor stock levels in specialist service area and request new equipment as appropriate. To be responsible for the security, care and maintenance of equipment ensuring standards of infection control and safety are maintained including equipment loaned to clients. To maintain up to date and accurate case notes in line with RCSLT professional standards and local trust policies. To share information with others, observing data protection guidelines. To work independently within defined departmental and national protocols/policies and professional code of conduct. To monitor auditory, visual and kinaesthetic aspects of clients communication and to identify appropriate strategies to facilitate and enhance communicative effectiveness. This may require intense periods of concentration. Any other duties commensurate with the grade.