JOB DESCRIPTION

SPEECH & Language THERAPY ASSISTANT

Reports to:Speech & Language Therapist

Liaises with:Allied Health Professionals

Residential staff

Education staff

Families and Carers

External Agencies

Suppliers

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB:

To assist the Speech & Language Therapist(s) in supporting and developing the communication skills of students with speech and language impairments, including students who use technology to communicate/augment their communication, in a range of contexts and settings.

To support the therapist team by providinga variety of resources to support individual learner progression and achievement, including programming of AAC devices.

PRIMARY TASKS:

  • To assist the Speech and Language Therapists in supporting students to develop their communication skills through the use of a range of resources, including AAC and in a range of contexts and settings
  • To effectively manage own timetable under the supervision and guidance of the therapist
  • To support the therapist in offering teaching/training to students, their families and carers about their communication strategies thus promoting continued language development and communication skills in the home environment
  • To provide some technical support to students using AAC devices and environmental controls.
  • To complete and maintain individual learner documentation in line with college quality standards and professional guidelines
  • To advise cross college staff on individual learner communication strategies as necessary
  • To refer to and liaise with families, carers, allied health professionals and external agencies enabling effective transfer of information, advice and guidance, whilst ensuring that data protection and learner confidentiality are protected as necessary and appropriate
  • To research new equipment/resources/product information
  • To maintain stock control and order equipment from appropriate suppliers
  • To take part in training and service development in line with College and professional requirements
  • To undertake supervision and appraisal in line with College policy
  • To attend and contribute to departmental and multi-disciplinary meetings
  • To act within the college health and safety policy and procedures to ensure a safe working environment
  • To undertake any other duties as may be within the scope of the role function

SAFEGUARDING:

National Star takes seriously its responsibility for safeguarding and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young adults and children and requires that all staff share this and act accordingly by applying organisational policy and procedure and attending annual safeguarding training.

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY

Through personal example and clear action demonstrate commitment to equality and diversity ensuring equality of access and treatment in employment and service delivery to all.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Promote the organisation’s Health and Safety at Work Policy and Procedure and ensure these are implemented effectively within the department

NATIONAL STAR
PERSON SPECIFICATION
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSISTANT - AAC/TECHNICAL
ATTRIBUTE / ESSENTIAL / DESIRABLE
Qualifications /
  • Good standard of education. Literacy and Numeracy equivalent to level 2
  • NVQ level 3
/
  • Foundation level Makaton qualification

Experience /
  • Experience of working with clients with a range of communication difficulties
  • Experience of working with young adults with LD and Physical disabilities
/
  • Prior experience working directly with SLT
  • Ability to sign – Makaton
  • 2 experience in a related field working with clients in a care setting
  • Programming of AAC devices

Skills & Knowledge /
  • Excellent observation skills
  • Effective written and oral communication skills
  • Excellent IT skills
  • Ability to communicate well with a wide range of people
  • Ability to work unsupervised and within a multi-disciplinary team
  • Effective organisation and time management skills
  • Client focussed
  • Ability to create a range of resources to supplement and augment communication
  • Awareness and understanding of the role of a Speech and Language Therapist
  • Awareness of related H&S legislation relating to sphere of practice
  • Ability to risk assess and work safely under H&S legislation
  • Ability to share knowledge and ask for assistance
  • Creative and innovative practitioner
/
  • Knowledge and practical application skills relating to supporting clients who use AAC devices
  • Understanding of the role of other Allied Health Professionals and the principles of multidisciplinary working

Personal /
  • Flexible, adaptable and confident
  • An effective team player
  • Proactive
  • Conscientious
  • Ability to self-direct
  • Ability to work with others

Other /
  • Undertake weekend and evening activities as required
  • Ability to maintain client confidentiality
  • Good time management
  • Good health to meet the demands of the role
  • Ability to work well under pressure
/
  • Full Driving Licence

Speech and Language Therapy Assistant | Updated April 2017