Specialist Speech & Language Therapist - Adult Learning Disability

Maintaining high levels of evidence base learning disability practice, contributing to and facilitating care processes and pathways. Demonstrate understanding of learning disability practice underpinned by theoretical knowledge and relevant clinical experience and competence Display specialist knowledge of individuals physical and mental health needs and appropriate evidence informed interventions in learning disability practice Show awareness of national and local policies impacting on learning disability practice Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of health improvement methodologies and how they contribute to the delivery of improved health outcomes for people with learning disabilities across the lifespan Display skills in risk assessment, risk management and risk enablement in liaison with MDT / SLT ALD Clinical Leads Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the diverse health needs of people with learning disabilities, supporting mainstream services across all tiers in the development of relevant knowledge, skills and clinical competences Display a high level of awareness of own values and beliefs Comply with both DPT and TSDFT and professional codes and standards in demonstrating personal and professional commitment to equality and diversity Demonstrate knowledge of relevant legislation and national and local policies and procedures, including the Mental Capacity Act Search, review, analyse, critically appraise and apply relevant literature effectively to influence policy and practice development Core Duties involved in the care of people with LD Include: Specialist assessment of clients with learning disabilities who have complex communication needs and challenging behaviour and/or mental health issues To participate in the multi-professional delivery of holistic care and intervention Structured observation of interaction of clients with carers to inform understanding of the persons communication needs and the impact of carers communication strategies Undertake assessment and develop management plans for people with complex eating and drinking difficulties (dysphagia) Contribute to development and evaluation of training in areas of communication and dysphagia To support B5 (if appropriate) & B3 speech and language therapy team members in developing their clinical skills and in delivering SLT service To have specialist expertise in distressed (challenging) behaviour and mental health issues To contribute to the delivery of research and evidenced based CPD for the Specialist Health Community Learning Disability Teams and SLT teams To input into the development of local communication strategies and SLT initiatives To provide specialist speech and language therapy assessment, diagnosis and treatment service to adults with learning disabilities in a range of settings Contribute to triaging and managing SLT ALD caseload and waiting lists Plan and deliver intervention jointly with relevant others (Person with learning disability, carer, Specialist Health Community Learning Disability Team colleagues and other professionals) Promote the use of inclusive communication in the lives of people with learning disabilities (i.e. a Total Communication and/ or Intensive Interaction approaches) At all times abide by the Terms and Conditions of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists code of Ethics and HCPC Regulations To maintain flexibility, plan and work with other disciplines to reach shared objectives, including use of technology for delivery of service MCA / DOLS supporting maximisation of communication for Capacity Assessments