Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Band 6 Speech and Language Therapist to join our multidisciplinary team at the Chichester Centre and contribute to the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based communication and dysphagia services.
Research suggests that 60-80% of those in the criminal justice system may have speech, language or communication needs. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a growing and highly valued service that supports individuals with complex communication needs within a low secure environment.
This post offers an excellent opportunity to develop specialist skills within forensic mental health, working alongside experienced clinicians in a supportive multi‑disciplinary environment.
Main duties
* Screen new referrals for communication and dysphagia needs and manage a caseload of adults with forensic mental health needs who also have complex communication and dysphagia/eating/drinking/swallowing needs.
* Undertake comprehensive, dynamic and person‑centred assessments, using evidence‑based practice and evaluate effectiveness of interventions using agreed outcome measures.
* Ensure service users’ voices are heard and included in the care planning process.
* Support service users in the co‑creation of communication and/or dysphagia resources that meet their needs.
* Ensure communication and/or dysphagia resources are understood and have a practical application for the whole care team.
About us
The Chichester Centre supports people who need rehabilitation and treatment within a secure environment. Our three low secure wards are for male patients who have either committed a criminal offence or have significant challenging behaviour.
You will work alongside a collaborative multi‑disciplinary team, offering expert assessment, diagnosis and care for adults with complex psychiatric needs following a trauma‑informed care approach.
We are committed to delivering care with compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence, ensuring that our patients and service users are at the heart of everything we do.
What you can expect
* Access to numerous wellbeing and support programmes.
* Excellent supervision programmes, with ongoing opportunities for training and development.
* Access to a host of discount schemes (including gyms, shopping, restaurants and cars).
* Superb NHS Pension.
* Generous holiday entitlement (starts at 27 days + 8 bank holidays).
* And much more…
Qualifications
* Recognised Speech & Language Therapy Degree or Master’s qualification or equivalent.
* Health Professions Council licence to practise.
* Registered member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists.
Experience and Knowledge
* Postgraduate experience as a Speech & Language Therapist working in mental health, learning disabilities or other relevant areas.
* Experience of training other professionals.
* Knowledge of assessment tools relevant to the client group.
* Knowledge of a range of appropriate therapeutic interventions relevant to the client group.
* Knowledge of the principles of clinical governance and audit.
* Knowledge of record‑keeping standards.
* Ability to adapt written and verbal communication to suit the needs of people with communication difficulties (including Makaton signing, symbols, pictures, etc).
Disclosure, Sponsorship and Registration
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a DBS check. Applicants requiring Skilled Worker Sponsorship will have their applications considered.
Applicants must hold current UK professional registration.
Employer Details
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
The Chichester Centre
Graylingwell Drive
Chichester
PO19 6GS
United Kingdom
Website: https://www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/
Principal Speech and Language Therapist FHS
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