Head & Neck Speech and Language Therapist (B5-B6 Development Consider)

Job overview

We are seeking a Speech and Language Therapist with experience in Head and Neck Cancer (HANC). We will also consider applicants who are confident autonomous practitioners with strong dysphagia and communication skills and a keen interest in developing within HANC. Applicants with transferable skills from other relevant clinical areas are encouraged to apply. Band 5–6 developmental post will also be considered, with a robust support framework available.

Experience in HANC, tracheostomy, SVR, FEES and/or Videofluoroscopy is desirable but not essential. Opportunities to develop specialist skills may be available according to service need; however, training and competency development in all specialist areas cannot be guaranteed. The successful candidate will:

• Provide specialist assessment and management for patients with dysphagia and communication difficulties related to HANC.
• Manage a complex caseload using evidence-based, person-centred practice.
• Contribute to MDT decision-making through attendance at clinics, MDT meetings, ward rounds and family discussions.
• Support the development of students, assistants and junior colleagues, according to experience.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the SLT service.

Successful applicants will be required to provide an immunisation and vaccination report from their current UK Occupational Health provider or UK GP.

Main duties of the job

• Assess, diagnose and manage adults with dysphagia and communication difficulties, including those with complex HANC presentations.
• Develop, implement and review evidence-based, person-centred treatment and management plans.
• Manage and prioritise a specialist caseload, taking clinical responsibility for patient care and discharge planning.
• Work as part of the multidisciplinary team, providing specialist advice, education and support to patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Contribute to service development, audit, quality improvement and clinical governance activities.
• Support the supervision and development of students and less experienced staff, according to experience.
• Participate in continuing professional development and maintain professional standards in line with HCPC and RCSLT requirements.
• Contribute to service delivery across UHCW and Rugby St Cross sites as required, including covering colleagues during periods of absence.
• Opportunities may be available to develop specialist competencies such as FEES, Videofluoroscopy, tracheostomy and SVR, depending on service need.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• Undertake assessment and management of adults with communication and swallowing difficulties associated with Head and Neck Cancer, with support from senior colleagues as required.
• Interpret & analyse clinical & non-clinical facts to form accurate diagnosis & prognosis on a range of conditions to recommend the best course of intervention, evaluate outcomes, reassess & to develop comprehensive discharge plans. Seeking support from senior colleagues as required.
• Evaluate patient progress, reassess and alter treatment plans as required
• Be professionally & legally responsible & accountable for all aspects of your own work including the management of patients in your care.
• Undertake department audit and service development work, translating findings into practice.
• Provide specialist advice, teaching & instruction to relatives, carers & other members of the MDT regarding SLT issues.
• Engage in department and own CPD activities.
• Participate in health promotion activities of the department.
• Participate in other duties as required such as maintaining a clean safe environment always ensuring adherence to Trust standards of cleanliness hygiene & infection control.
• To take on designated roles or responsibilities that support the overarching needs of the department.
• To provide SLT provision across sites of University Hospital Coventry and Hospital of St Cross.

Secondment will be considered for internal candidates – If you are successful after interview, you must obtain approval from your current line manager to accept the offer.

For further details of the role please see the attached job description.