Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a B7 Lead SLT to join our inpatient Mental Health Services in DTVF. This will be leading a small team working across the AMH inpatient provision and linking in with clinical networks, pathway development and service development.

The post holder will be part of a dynamic SLT Mental Health and Learning Disability service, with well-defined peer support, supervision systems and extensive CPD alongside opportunities to shape the SLT service as part of the clinical leadership team.

Main duties of the job
The role of the Lead Speech & Language Therapist will be to assess and treat communication difficulties and problems with eating, drinking and swallowing (dysphagia) for our adult inpatients. As a Senior SLT the post holder will carry their own autonomous caseload, supervise and mentor SLT colleagues and support the practice and learning of professionals within the wider MDT. The post holder will also be part of the leadership team and be responsible for service development in their specialty.

The successful applicant will have significant experience of working with adults with autism, mental health difficulties, challenging behaviour and/or complex needs. Knowledge of relevant national policy and local directives is essential. Competence in the assessment and treatment of eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties is highly desirable. Most important is an enthusiasm for working with this client group and a passion to improve the lives of the people we support.

About us
We are the Mental Health & Learning Disability NHS Trust for County Durham and Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York and Selby.

From education and prevention, to crisis and specialist care -- our talented and compassionate teams work in partnership with our patients, communities and partners to help the people of our region feel safe, understood, believed in and cared for.

We nurture the recovery journey of anyone in need of our help. In Our Trust, everyone has a say in how they are supported and treated because we listen to every person in our care until they feel understood. Our patients, their families and carers work together with us towards better mental health.

We're committed to new thinking that improves the wellbeing of our region. We connect with our communities and partners to get mental health care right, in areas that really need it.

We won't rest until everyone in our region has the mental health care they need, to lead their best possible life.

Job responsibilities
Applicants for the post will hold a suitable qualification in Speech and Language Therapy, have relevant experience in this clinical field and have a particular interest and enthusiasm for leadership, service delivery, collaborative working and championing SLT.

Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for further detailed information to ensure that you meet the role criteria before applying.

This job advert may close early if a high volume of applications have been received. If interested, please apply for the post as soon as possible.

For informal discussion please contact: Sam Bradley, Professional Head of Speech and Language Therapy sam.bradley@nhs.net , Emma Scarr, Service Manager emma.scarr1@nhs.net