At MedicsPro, our experienced team of professional recruiters ensures that we match qualified Speech and Language Therapists with locum and permanent roles worldwide.

We Offer:

• A dedicated compliance officer
• A market-leading referral scheme
• Access to exclusive ultrasound vacancies
• Expert consultative service
• Opportunities across the UK, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
• Preferred supply status with numerous NHS and private healthcare providers
• Weekly payroll

What is a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist?

A paediatric speech and language therapist (SLT) is a qualified professional who assists children with challenges related to speech, language, communication, and related skills.

Their support encompasses several areas:

• Speech: Addressing issues like speech sound production, poor articulation, and difficulty pronouncing words.
• Language: Helping with developmental language disorders (DLD), limited vocabulary, and challenges in expressive language.
• Communication: Assisting with difficulties in following instructions, social communication, and conversational skills.
• Eating and Drinking: Providing support for dysphagia, which includes challenges with eating, drinking, and swallowing.

SLTs work with children from birth to 19 years old, engaging with them one-on-one, in small groups, or within classroom settings.

Their approaches include a variety of strategies, such as:

• Modelling correct sounds and syllables.
• Demonstrating how to position the tongue for specific sounds.
• Oral-motor therapy and feeding techniques.
• Facial massage and exercises for the tongue, lips, and jaw.

In addition to direct therapy, SLTs collaborate with parents, caregivers, and other professionals to promote the child's development and raise awareness of their speech and language needs.

Specialised Support for Eating, Drinking, and Swallowing

Paediatric SLTs also play a crucial role in assessing and treating children with eating, drinking, and swallowing difficulties. The SLT team evaluates the child and provides tailored advice and strategies to ensure safe, efficient, and enjoyable eating experiences.

Areas of focus may include:

• Feeding and Swallowing Assessment: Evaluating the child’s eating habits and challenges.
• Managing Mealtimes: Creating a positive environment for eating and establishing routines.
• Non-Nutritive Sucking: Encouraging sucking without swallowing to support oral development.
• Speaking Valve Assessment: Determining suitability for a speaking valve for children with tracheostomies.
• Video fluoroscopy Swallow Study: Conducting a video X-ray test to observe swallowing function.

Reasons for Referral

Consultants may refer children to an SLT for concerns such as:

• Food or drink entering the airway during swallowing, resulting in respiratory issues (e.g., persistent coughing or chest infections).
• Choking or coughing episodes during meals.
• Infants who tire quickly or exhibit distress when drinking.
• Insufficient weight gain due to eating or drinking difficulties.
• Avoidance of certain food textures or consistencies.

Assessment Process

The assessment typically involves:

• Case History: Gathering information about the child's feeding history from birth onward.
• Observation: The SLT observes the child eating their usual diet and any challenging foods or drinks.
• Monitoring: Listening to swallowing sounds using a small stethoscope during the assessment.

After the evaluation, the SLT discusses findings and provides recommendations for improving feeding or swallowing skills, which may include further assessments, such as a video fluoroscopy swallow study.

Tips for Managing Mealtimes

To support a child's eating behaviour, it is essential to create a calm and structured mealtime environment.

Recommendations include:

• Encouraging a positive atmosphere and avoiding stress during meals.
• Establishing regular mealtimes and routines.
• Encouraging self-feeding to promote autonomy.
• Offering a variety of food types and manageable portion sizes.

Conclusion

Paediatric SLTs are vital in helping children overcome speech, language, and swallowing difficulties. Their comprehensive approach not only focuses on direct therapy but also involves collaboration with families and caregivers to support the child's overall development.

This is the perfect time to work, with a strong demand for skilled professionals. By choosing MedicsPro, you'll have access to a wide range of opportunities and competitive pay rates.

Key Benefits:

• Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities: MedicsPro offers a broad selection of locum and permanent positions across various medical specialties.
• Competitive Pay Rates: The agency provides highly competitive pay rates to ensure you’re well-compensated for your skills and experience.
• Flexible Work Options: With locum and permanent roles available, you can choose work that suits your schedule and lifestyle, offering greater work-life balance.
• Dedicated Support: MedicsPro offers personalised support from a team of experienced recruitment consultants who are there to guide you through the job search process.
• Exclusive Roles: Many of the positions available through MedicsPro are exclusive, giving you access to roles that may not be advertised elsewhere.
• Ongoing Training and Development: The agency provides opportunities for continuing professional development, helping you stay current with industry standards and enhance your career prospects.
• Fast and Efficient Recruitment Process: MedicsPro ensures a smooth and streamlined recruitment process, minimising the time it takes for you to secure your next role.
• Nationwide and International Opportunities: Whether you're looking for work in the NHS, private sector, or overseas, MedicsPro offers positions across the UK and beyond.