Job summary
We are seeking a Speech and Language Therapist with experience in Head and Neck Cancer (HANC). We will also consider applicants who are confident autonomous practitioners with strong dysphagia and communication skills and have a keen interest in developing within HANC. Applicants with transferable skills from other relevant clinical areas are encouraged to apply. Band 5-6 developmental post will also be considered, with a robust support framework available - applications from candidates awaiting registration will be considered on the development pathway.

Experience in HANC, tracheostomy, SVR, FEES and/or Videofluoroscopy is desirable but not essential. Opportunities to develop specialist skills may be available according to service need; however, training and competency development in all specialist areas cannot be guaranteed. The successful candidate will:

• Provide specialist assessment and management for patients with dysphagia and communication difficulties related to HANC.
• Manage a complex caseload using evidence-based, person-centred practice.
• Contribute to MDT decision-making through attendance at clinics, MDT meetings, ward rounds and family discussions.
• Support the development of students, assistants and junior colleagues, according to experience.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the SLT service.

Interviews are provisionally scheduled for 16th November 2026.

Main duties of the job

• Assess, diagnose and manage adults with dysphagia and communication difficulties, including those with complex HANC presentations.
• Develop, implement and review evidence-based, person-centred treatment and management plans.
• Manage and prioritise a specialist caseload, taking clinical responsibility for patient care and discharge planning.
• Work as part of the multidisciplinary team, providing specialist advice, education and support to patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Contribute to service development, audit, quality improvement and clinical governance activities.
• Support the supervision and development of students and less experienced staff, according to experience.
• Participate in continuing professional development and maintain professional standards in line with HCPC and RCSLT requirements.
• Contribute to service delivery across UHCW and Rugby St Cross sites as required, including covering colleagues during periods of absence.
• Opportunities may be available to develop specialist competencies such as FEES, Videofluoroscopy, tracheostomy and SVR, depending on service need.

Successful applicants will be required to provide an immunisation and vaccination report from their current UK Occupational Health provider or UK GP.

About us
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, rated as good by the Care Quality Commission, is one of the largest teaching Trusts in the UK.

We are extremely proud of our employees across our hospital sites, with high quality patient care at the heart of everything we do.

Boasting some of the most modern facilities in Western Europe, the Trust is renowned for being at the forefront of research and innovation as part of its blossoming reputation as a worldwide leader in healthcare.

We are proud to be recognised as a Pathway to Excellence designated organisation - please click the link for further details about this prestigious award. Apply through our website.

By joining our exciting journey, you will form part of a passionate, talented team and will be able to access a wide range of learning and development opportunities. There has never been a better time to join our team.

The Trust is committed to building an organisation that makes full use of the talents, skills, experience, and different perspectives available in our diverse society. We want everyone to feel they are respected, valued, can achieve their potential and receive the most appropriate and relevant care. We will create an environment where the equality and human rights principles of fairness, respect, equality, dignity and autonomy are promoted and are part of the organisation's core values.

Details
Band: Band 5
Salary: £32,073 to £48,117 a year per annum
Contract: Fixed term, 18 months
Working pattern: Full-time
Reference number: 218-AHP-B6-8396065
Closing date: 08 November 2026

Essential qualifications

• Degree in Speech and Language Therapy or equivalent.
• HCPC registration.
• Member of the RCSLT.
• Evidence of dysphagia training and/or working towards dysphagia competencies.

Essential experience

• Experience of assessing and managing adults with communication and/or swallowing difficulties either independently or under supervision.
• Experience of working as part of a team.
• Experience of working in the NHS.

Essential skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Able to adapt communication style to varied listeners.
• Demonstrates ability to be a good team member and function effectively in the multidisciplinary team.
• Supportive to other staff.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Keyboard and IT skills to support clinical practice.
• Flexible approach and willingness to adapt to change.

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 to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer contact
Head & Neck Cancer SLT Service Lead: Alice Coltman, alice.coltman@uhcw.nhs.uk, 02476966449