To work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide a high-quality speech and language assessment service for children suspected of having an autism spectrum condition, including pre-school and school-age children (up to 18 years). This involves using standardised and non-standardised assessment tools to form informed opinions on communication skills, conducted in clinic, preschool, and school settings based on the child's age and development.
Working under the direction of the Band 7 Speech and Language Therapist and Advanced Clinical Practitioner, you will ensure the delivery of assessment services at the Child Development Centre. The role may include supporting children with other speech, language, communication, or feeding needs such as dysphagia.
Please note that the Children's Speech & Language Service in Plymouth is delivered by Livewell Southwest. While maintaining a close working relationship, this post is within a separate service and not part of the wider community team.
Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, including those with Priority and 'At Risk' status, such as NHS at Risk staff across Devon, who demonstrate recent relevant experience as per the Person Specification.
You will provide expert opinions on young people being assessed for autism spectrum conditions, collaborating with the multi-disciplinary team, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge on assessment and support for young people with autism. Opportunities may exist to develop skills in Paediatric Dysphagia, including devising management plans and liaising with community speech and language therapists.
We are committed to a people-focused approach, valuing every staff member. Patients are central to our work, and joining University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust offers career development in a progressive environment. The city is vibrant and historic, offering a rich quality of life.
All communication will be electronic; please check your email regularly. For application support or reasonable adjustments, contact the recruitment team at 01752 432100. We support flexible working requests and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. Vacancies may close early, and if you haven't heard within four weeks of the closing date, assume you have not been shortlisted.
Responsibilities include:
1. Conduct specialist assessments in various settings, analyzing understanding and use of vocabulary, speech sounds, grammar, voice, social use of language, non-verbal communication, carer-child interaction, and play skills.
2. Provide recommendations for differential diagnoses based on assessment findings, aligned with NICE guidelines for autism assessment.
3. Coordinate multi-disciplinary meetings, including acting as chair in the absence of the Clinical Lead for autism assessment pathways.
4. Write and share clinical reports with relevant professionals, including ongoing speech and language needs.
5. Advise team members on ongoing care and contribute to statutory processes.
6. Manage time effectively to meet objectives.
7. Support assessment and support for children with feeding difficulties.
8. Maintain clear, concise clinical records following trust policies.
9. Uphold high standards of professional and clinical practice.
10. Maintain HCPC registration.
11. Recognize professional boundaries, seek advice and training when needed, and participate in performance reviews.
12. Promote proactive and innovative practices.
13. Respect cultural differences and ensure service accessibility for all children.
14. Participate in service meetings and adhere to policies.
15. Engage in service evaluation, clinical governance, research, and audits.
16. Contribute to user involvement and staff training.
17. Participate in child safeguarding procedures as necessary.
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