Detailed job description and main responsibilities

·       To implement programmes of care devised by Speech and Language Therapists for children with significant speech, language and communication needs

·       To modify approaches and activities within programmes of care to meet requirements/contexts

·       To support the children and their families in using alternative and augmentative systems of communication

·       To liaise with individuals involved with the patient including families and other professionals

·       To prepare therapy materials and carry out administrative tasks

·       To work within the Multi-disciplinary Team to provide support and appropriate interventions to patients in Gateshead to improve their health and maximise their level of independence.

·   To carry an allocated patient caseload under the supervision of qualified staff and supervise/motivate patients in activities relating to agreed treatment protocols. 

•     To ensure that the highest level of patient care is achieved at all times in the most effective manner.

·       Minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C ( or equivalent) or above (including English)

•      Degree in a relevant subject/NVQ level 4, BTEC Level 3 or equivalent in relevant subjects.

·       Experience of working with relevant client groups, and/or working in Nurseries/Pre school settings, mainstream and specialist schools e.g. Profound and Multiple Learning Disability (PMLD), Cerebral Palsy, Downs Syndrome, Autism

·       Additional training relating to the specific client group and their overall management which is relevant to the post e.g. Makaton, PECS

·       Experience of working under the instruction of a Speech and Language Therapist to implement language programmes and/or alternate communication systems e.g. Communication boards, Makaton, voice output communication aids.

·       Knowledge of current Child Protection/Safeguarding children policies and procedures

·       Experience of working with children with additional needs especially in relation to speech, language and communication

·       Highly developed oral, written and non verbal communication skills including tact and sensitivity

·       Highly developed observation and listening skills

·       Organisational and time management skills

·       Administrative and clerical skills- MDT support

·       Ability to identify and appropriately minimise risk

·       Ability to keep up to date with Trust Policies and procedures and attend statutory training, study days and staff meetings as required.

·       Identify and be proactive in developing own skills and knowledge via supervision and appraisal systems and demonstrate competent practice

·       Ability to work independently or as part of a team

·       Working knowledge of Data Protection and Calidcott Principles

·       Ability to prioritise workload safely

·       Ability to work on his/her own initiative

·       Have the ability to travel across multiple sites as required

·       Daily requirements to sit at desk and use computer/VDU for multiple purposes.

·       Daily requirement to receive complex clinical information and communicate this accurately and effectively to the correct recipient in a timely fashion

·       Frequent periods of concentration when facilitating programs of care as prescribed by a senior staff member.

·       Ability to switch tasks as a result of managing multiple demands on time and the potential for frequent interruptions.

·       Accurate keyboarding/typing skills 

·       Knowledge of computer packages: Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, Powerpoint and Microsoft Projects.

·       It Literate

·       Excellent team player

·       Experience of working independently.

·       Experience of working to tight deadlines

·       Experience of working in a Healthcare Environment.

·       Experience of working in community healthcare systems

•      Current UK drivers licence required
•      Access to own vehicle for work 
• Capable of independent travel across Gateshead/Car Owner/driver