Acute Lead Speech and Language Therapist

The Adult SLT team at Darent Valley Hospital have an exciting opportunity for a full‑time permanent Band 7 Highly Specialist Speech & Language Therapist to join our team at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust. We are also happy to consider part‑time working or a job‑share arrangement for the right candidate. This is a key leadership role within a dynamic, forward‑thinking team serving a diverse caseload, including the hospital’s 15‑bedded Intensive Care Unit.

Located close to South‑East London with strong transport links, the Trust also offers a 5% high‑cost area supplement
. Our team is known for being friendly, proactive and adaptable, with a strong commitment to high‑quality patient care and professional development.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated clinician with specialist expertise in acute care. You will co‑lead the acute inpatient team alongside an established Band 7 colleague, providing clinical leadership and supporting therapists and therapy assistants in managing a varied and fast‑paced caseload.

Experience in critical care and tracheostomy management would be an advantage, but it is not essential. We welcome applicants who are keen to develop these skills, and the team is committed to providing structured support to help you build confidence in these areas.

The service benefits from weekly videofluoroscopy and FEES clinics
, and while prior competency in these assessments is valuable, we are equally happy to support the development of these competencies for the right candidate.

You will work closely with the Band 8 Inpatient Lead SLT, collaborate with the Stroke SLT team, and be supported by a well‑established outpatient service and excellent administrative colleagues.

• Clinical governance, service evaluation and ongoing development
• Line management and supervision of SLT colleagues
• Leading and contributing to audits, quality improvement projects and training initiatives
• Delivering teaching across wards and multidisciplinary teams
• Supporting junior SLTs and students

For further details / informal visits contact:
Name:
Jennie Longthorne,

Job title:

Head of SLT - Inpatients, Email address: , Telephone number: