Specialist Speech and Language Therapist

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.

• Screen new referrals for communication and dysphagia needs within a multi‑professional environment.
• Manage a caseload of adults with forensic mental health needs who also have complex communication and dysphagia/eating/drinking/swallowing needs.
• Conduct comprehensive, dynamic and person‑centred assessments and use evidence‑based practice to 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 co‑creating communication and or dysphagia resources that meet their needs and that are understood and applied by the whole care team.

The Chichester Centre provides rehabilitation and treatment within a secure environment. It houses three low‑secure wards for male patients who have committed a criminal offence or display significant challenging behaviour. Staff work in a collaborative multi‑disciplinary team, offering expert assessment, diagnosis and care for adults with complex psychiatric needs following a trauma‑informed care approach. The centre is committed to delivering care with compassion, accountability, respect and excellence, placing patients and service users at the heart of everything we do.

• Well‑being and support programmes for staff.
• Excellent supervision and ongoing opportunities for training and development.
• Access to discount schemes (gyms, shopping, restaurants, cars).
• Superb NHS pension.
• Generous holiday entitlement (27 days + 8 bank holidays).
• And more.

This is a Speech & Language Therapy post in the Forensic Healthcare Service, suited to a therapist with prior experience and/or interest in mental health or complex needs. The post holder will be primarily based at the Chichester Centre, a low‑secure hospital.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing a delegated caseload with supervision from a more experienced colleague.
• Providing Speech & Language Therapy assessment, diagnosis and intervention using established, evidence‑based models.
• Serving as a core member of the Allied Health Professionals team.
• Working towards or holding a postgraduate qualification in dysphagia to provide a dysphagia service alongside a communication caseload.

• Recognised Speech & Language Therapy Degree or Masters qualification or equivalent.
• Health Professions Council licence to practice.
• Registered member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists.

• Postgraduate experience as a Speech & Language Therapist in mental health, learning disabilities or other relevant area.
• Experience of training other professionals.
• Familiarity with assessment tools relevant to the client group.
• Knowledge of a range of appropriate therapeutic interventions.
• Knowledge of clinical governance/audit principles.
• Knowledge of record‑keeping standards.
• Ability to adapt written and verbal communication to suit people with communication needs (including Makaton, symbols and pictures).

This post requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. Applicants must submit a DBS to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Applications from job seekers who require a Skilled Worker visa are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.

Applicants must have current UK professional registration.

Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

The Chichester Centre
Graylingwell Drive
Chichester
PO19 6GS

Website:

Principal Speech and Language Therapist FHS