Job Overview Specialist Learning Disabilities Directorate Speech and Language Therapist Telford and Shropshire Community Learning Disability Team We are seeking a part time highly motivated Band 6 Speech and Language Therapist to work within the Community Learning Disability Team in Shropshire where we provide high quality, community based, integrated services for adults with learning disabilities. If successful, you will work independently under the leadership of the Professional and Team Lead, whilst having the opportunity to develop yourself personally and professionally during this time. A valid UK driving license plus the use of your own car for business purposes is essential due to the large rural nature of our catchment area. Main duties of the job To provide specialist Speech and Language Therapy assessment, diagnosis and treatment programmes to individual adult clients with complex learning disabilities, some of whom have physical disabilities and/or autism. To be an autonomous practitioner, holding a small mixed clinical caseload of those with swallowing and communication needs; working without direct supervision within the context of a multi-disciplinary team. To support less experienced staff and students and colleagues deliver the Trust contracted services. To provide expert advice in relation to swallowing and communication. Signposting and providing guidance and information to health and social care professionals, clients, carers and relatives. Working for our organisation Come and work with us at our award-winning NHS Trust, leading the way for trying new and better ways of working to help improve life for our local communities. We have around 9,000 staff who provide physical and mental healthcare, support for people with learning disabilities, and adult social care across Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin. We also run regional and national services, including help for new parents (perinatal care), eating disorders, forensic services, sexual health, and support for people in prison with mental health, drug, or alcohol problems. We offer great career development for both clinical and non-clinical roles, with ongoing training and support to help you learn and grow. We are ‘United in our Uniqueness’ and committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and can be themselves, no matter their background or identity. We want our staff to feel supported and valued, and we aim to build a team that reflects the communities we serve. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard, and every difference is respected. Please note, we may be required to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications Please be aware that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in completing application forms will be monitored to ensure fairness and transparency. If you have used AI you must state this in your application. Key Responsibilities Detailed job description and main responsibilities Be professionally accountable for all aspects of own work, including caseload management and direct clinical care. To work within the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) Standards of Practice and Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) standards. Obtain and record informed consent from clients at each contact in accordance with Trust policy. Carry out comprehensive specialist Speech and Language Therapy assessments for complex learning disabilities, some of whom have physical disabilities and/or autism. Interpret clinical information and data related to clinical parameters along with non-clinical information and use clinical reasoning skills to accurately diagnose and develop specific treatment plans. Provide specialist advice to other professionals or assessments to meet clients’ holistic care needs. Formulate and deliver individual treatment plans based on specialist knowledge, evidence-based practise, national and local guidelines using profession-specific clinical skills and techniques (e.g. 1:1 interventions, carer education, patient education). To undertake complex swallowing and communication assessments. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the evidence base related to Speech and Language Therapy assessment and interventions for this client group. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of instrumental assessment available (such as videofluoroscopy) and to be able to signpost to services who assess and provide this. Contribute to the multi-disciplinary clinical referral, assessment and discharge planning process and onward referral as required. Prioritise urgent, unexpected or planned referrals, adjusting caseloads and allocations to meet revised needs. Person specification Qualifications & Training Essential criteria Degree in Speech and Language Therapy. Unrestricted registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Dysphagia competency. Experience Essential criteria Assessment and treatment of communication and swallowing needs of clients with learning disabilities. Desirable criteria Worked as part of multidisciplinary team. Skills, Knowledge & Abilities Essential criteria Demonstrates knowledge and skills that are necessary to work with people with learning disability regarding communication and swallowing difficulties. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Well-developed clinical reasoning skills. Evidence of CPD. Personal Attributes Essential criteria Leads by example. Respectful. Honest and trustworthy. Caring and compassionate.