Overview
We have a fantastic opportunity for the right person to join the Dorset County Hospital Speech and Language Therapy Team (Adult Service) to provide a highly specialist flexible service to adults with voice disorders and head and neck cancer in outpatient and inpatient capacity. You will have autonomy in running voice clinics and a small head and neck service to patients in West Dorset. You will be integrated into the Adult Speech and Language Therapy Team and have an opportunity to work within other areas of specialty if desired. If you have the necessary skills and a desire to lead this specialist service, we would love to hear from you.
Main duties
* Work as a member of the Dorset County Hospital Speech and Language Therapy Team (Adult Service) in the provision of a highly specialist flexible service to adults with voice disorders predominantly at the Outpatient Therapy Centre, Charlton Down.
* Work as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing highly specialist therapy to patients with Head and Neck Cancer related communication, voice and/or swallowing difficulties.
* Deputise for the Team Lead in respect of operational management of the service as required, in line with requirements of other Band 7s on site.
* Contribute to the Videofluoroscopy service, specifically for Head and Neck cancer patients, and provide cover for the lead clinicians in Videofluoroscopy as required.
* Supervise and develop junior members of the team within the service.
About Us
At DCHFT, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients and on the culture we are creating for our staff. We work to create a fair, inclusive environment for our staff. Our mission is to work in partnership to provide high quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best. Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities. We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
We understand that some applicants may choose to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing their application materials. Submissions must be truthful and accurately reflect your own experiences and suitability for this role. Personal integrity and authenticity are central to our recruitment process.
Details
Date posted: 24 February 2026
Pay scheme: Agenda for Change
Band: Band 7
Salary: £47,810 to £54,710 a year Pro Rata Per Annum
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Part-time, Flexible working
Reference number: 405-26-AHP062SALT-A
Job locations: Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT1 2JY
Job Description
Job responsibilities
Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification. Please contact us if you are unable to view or download the attachment. For all roles, we look for staff who uphold our Trust Values of Integrity, Respect, Teamwork and Excellence and who are passionate about patient care.
Person Specification
Essential
* Education/Qualifications/Training
o Degree in Speech and Language Therapy
o Registered as a Speech and Language Therapist with the Health Professions Council
o Evidence of CPD maintained in portfolio
o Evidence of participation in clinical excellence networks appropriate to role
o Highly Specialist skills as a Dysphagia Practitioner
o Minimum of 3 years working in the NHS
* Knowledge & Experience
o Clinical experience leading to capability to practice at a highly specialist level in Head and Neck Cancer and Voice disorders
o Independent management of dysphagia and communication difficulties in other neurological disorders
o Experience of Videofluoroscopy
o Experience of working in an Acute Hospital
o Experience in outpatient clinics (SLT led and consultant led)
o Experience in clinical audit and risk management
o MDT working and patient/public involvement in service planning
o Leadership experience or training
o Experience in giving training to professionals
* Skills & Abilities
o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
o Demonstrate leadership ability/potential
o Up-to-date knowledge of head and neck cancer treatment approaches
o Highly specialist skills in treating voice disorders (benign and malignant)
o Ability to independently assess, diagnose and treat complex cases and lead in specialist care
o Ability to manage clinical and operational demands and competing priorities
o Provide support for patients and relatives/carers in distressing situations
o Work effectively within SLT team and MDT
o Up-to-date evidence-based knowledge of interventions and outcome measures
o Understanding of clinical governance and risk management
o Knowledge of National Service Frameworks and guidelines relevant to Voice disorders and Head and Neck Cancer
o IT competency and a current driving licence with access to a car for work
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a DBS disclosure will be required.
Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require Skilled Worker sponsorship in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. See UK Visas and Immigration for details.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.
Employer details
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT1 2JY
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