Specialist Stroke Speech and Language Therapist

Specialist Stroke Speech and Language Therapist

The closing date is 16 March 2026

To provide an effective and evidence-based Speech & Language service to adult in-patients with communication and / or swallowing difficulties within the Stroke Unit. This role will also include specialist input for patients with other neurological conditions within the hospital. The post-holder will be expected to co-ordinate seamlessly with other SLT teams within the Trust to provide prompt and timely management of acute patients, according to the demand of services.

The post holder will work as a highly specialist, autonomous practitioner, independently prioritising and managing an in-patient caseload. The role will also have responsibility for overseeing the management of caseloads of more junior members of staff within the SLT department. Participation in the development and monitoring of the SLT service to the Stroke Unit and medicine. Supervision / management of other SLT teams during periods of sickness / annual leave will also be required.

To provide a highly specialist evidence-based Speech & Language Therapy service to the Stroke Unit, medical and surgical wards for patients with communication and/or swallowing difficulties, including patients with complex neurological conditions. Close collaboration with other members of the department and the MDT is essential.

To demonstrate specialist knowledge in the clinical area of dysphagia and acquired conditions underpinned by current evidence based practice and outcome measures.

To demonstrate a high level of clinical knowledge and skill in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with complex, acquired communcation and swallowing disorders, seeking advice and in discussion with the Principal SLT as required.

To demonstrate specialist knowledge in treatment / therapy techniques for Stroke and Neurological conditions, e.g., FOTT, LSVT.

Development and staff wellbeing

Your growth and personal happiness matter to us. After all, we can't expect the best from you if we don't invest in your development and nurture your wellbeing. From the moment you join us, we're committed to fostering your professional and personal development within a supportive, empowering environment. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to advance further, we provide you with the tools and opportunities you need to succeed.

We actively support colleagues to take part in research, quality improvement and innovation, whatever their role or level in the organisation.

To support your wellbeing, we offer an extensive range of resources, including an on-site staff nursery at Kingston Hospital, wellbeing practitioners, regular wellbeing classes, dedicated staff physiotherapist, comprehensive occupational health services, 24/7 employee assistance programme, and a range of other support and activities.

We also take every opportunity to thank and recognise the work our teams do, through weekly 'shoutouts' and patient feedback, monthly and annual awards.

Wherever you work across our organisation, we look forward to welcoming you.

At KRFT we are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements. Applicants are encouraged to discuss any flexibility they may need during the recruitment process.

*** Please see the attached supporting document/s which contains more information about the role in the job description and person specification***

NB: ensure your supporting statement aligns with the job description and person specification, as your application will be assessed against these criteria.

• Recognised degree or equivalent in Speech & Language Therapy
• Registered with and member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists (RCSLT) and the Health Professions Council (HCPC); HCPC licence to practice and eligible for full RCSLT register
• Completion of post graduate study / qualification in swallowing (accredited course) and communication disorders e.g. cervical auscultation, FOTT, LSVT, etc.
• Successful completion of highly specialist / expert short courses in the interpretation of…