Job Description

The closing date is 19th Nov 2025

Job summary

---------------


We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people (CYP) with speech, language and communication difficulties.


You will be based in one of our area teams, each comprising 6-10 Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Therapy Support Practitioners, and excellent administrative support. While your base will be local, travel across the county will be required for meetings, training, and to meet caseload needs.


We welcome applications from both Newly Qualified and Experienced Therapists, and are happy to consider part-time working arrangements.


We offer:

A structured induction programme Regular supervision from experienced clinicians Opportunities to contribute to service development and specialist interest groups A varied caseload across early years and school-aged children Work in diverse settings including clinics, schools, and family homes

Main duties, tasks & skills required

-----------------------------------------

Deliver Speech and Language Therapy services to CYP aged 0-19 with speech, language and/or communication impairments. Independently assess, diagnose, and develop care plans for clients. Provide therapy in clinic, schools, and homes, building strong relationships with families and educational staff. Maintain accurate case records and contribute to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including OT, PT, and education professionals. Offer training and support to parents, carers, and school staff. Participate in service development, CPD activities, and special interest groups. Supervise Therapy Support Practitioners and contribute to student training.

About us

------------


At

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

Flexible working options

to help you balance work and life

NHS pension scheme

for long-term financial security

Generous annual leave allowance

to recharge and relax A strong focus on

career development

to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you'll gain access to our

Blue Light Card

, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.


We are proud to foster a

diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce

, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset?

Somerset offers the perfect blend of

idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty

, and

breathtaking coastlines

, with vibrant cities like

Bristol

,

Bath

, and

Exeter

just a short drive away - and only two hours to

London

.


The region is home to excellent

educational facilities

, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all

- the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Job description

-------------------

Clinical Responsibilities:

Carry a caseload of CYP with speech, language and communication needs. Conduct initial assessments and provide ongoing therapy. Use a range of communication strategies tailored to individual needs. Involve families in therapy planning and goal setting. Provide input into EHCPs and attend relevant meetings and reviews.

Communication & Collaboration:

Liaise with referrers, families, and professionals across health and education. Refer to specialist services when appropriate. Promote understanding of SLT through training and outreach.

Service Development & Professional Growth:

Attend mandatory and specialist training. Engage in service evaluation and research initiatives. Contribute to departmental meetings and Trust-wide activities.

Operational Duties:

Travel across Somerset for caseload and meetings. Maintain equipment and ensure safe use. Adhere to Trust policies including safeguarding, confidentiality, and infection control.

Supervision & Leadership:

Supervise support staff and students. Provide emotional support to families and colleagues when needed.

Person specification

------------------------

Qualifications

#

Essential

Recognised Degree or equivalent in Speech and Language Therapy HPC registration and RCSLT registration

Experience

#

Essential

Experience of Speech Language Therapy at undergraduate level Experience of range of placements



#

Desirable

Post graduate experience of Speech Language Therapy

Additional Criteria

#

Essential

Car driver or otherwise mobile with appropriate business insurance Up to date theoretical knowledge Knowledge of current Educational and National Curriculum issues

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Professional Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website.

For help with your application, contact:

Ruth Wood


ruth.wood@somersetft.nhs.uk


07471520419

Pay scheme

Agenda for Change

Band

Band 5

Salary

31049.00 to 37796.00 Yearly

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-Time

Reference number

184-OL-GR-3600

Job locations

Parkgate House

East Reach

Taunton

Somerset

TA1 3ES