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Job overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a speech and language therapy (SLT) assistant to join our team at Harrogate. 

This post will be based within the adult speech and language therapy team in Harrogate District Hospital. The role of the speech and language therapy assistant is to support the therapy team to deliver high-quality patient care in the hospital setting.

We are looking for an enthusiastic SLTA to join our SLT team, working on our acute wards and our intensive care unit to support patients with swallowing or communication difficulties. This will involve managing your own caseload and also assisting the therapists on the wards. There will also be an element of administration, cleaning equipment and assisting the SLTs in videofluoroscopy and fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). The team offers regular supportive meetings and continuing professional development opportunities. This job will involve working on both clinical administration and clinical practice.

Main duties of the job

The main duties are:

·       To independently carry out and progress individual treatment plans written by the speech and language therapist with patients with communication, swallowing, cognitive and emotional impairments related to a wide range of conditions across an inpatient setting (including critical care).

·       To provide appropriate feedback to the speech and language therapist.

·       To carry and prioritise own caseload of patients, after initial assessment by the speech and language therapist.

·       To follow assessment protocols as directed by the therapist.

·       To be part of the adult speech and language therapy team and provide cover when required.

·   To support the therapy team with clinical admin tasks. 

·   To clean the scopes for FEES.

·   To support in the videofluoroscopy clinic as required.

·   To use initiative and work independently and unsupervised in a hospital setting.

·   To ensure clinical stock is replenished and in date.

This role would suit an individual who enjoys the challenges of a flexible day, supporting individuals to achieve their full potential with regards to communication and swallowing and has a desire to learn new skills. 

Working for our organisation

We are a supportive team and encourage development of the people in their roles. Training is offered and supervision is regular and tailored to the individual.

At Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust we provide 'outstanding' care to both our patients and our staff. We support staff through benefits, health and wellbeing initiatives and opportunities for personal and professional development.

• An inclusive and supportive culture - our Trust encourages staff to bring their whole selves to work and active Staff Networks identify areas for improvement.
• Staff Recognition - as well as regular appraisals, we recognise staff with our Making a Difference, Team of the Month Awards & Colleague Recognition Awards
• Employee Support and wellbeing - we have a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, counselling service and fast track physiotherapy service for employees.
• Staff Benefits - We have a range of staff benefits and schemes to support staff health, engagement, wellbeing and inclusion.