Speech and Language Therapist
At a glance
- Band
- Band 5
- Contract
- Permanent
- Pattern
- Full-time
- Posted
- 18/09/2026
- Closes
- 04/10/2026
Sponsorship verdict
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Role summary
This is a developmental Speech and Language Therapist role, starting at Band 5 with automatic progression to Band 6 upon completion of competencies. The first year involves structured dysphagia training and newly qualified competencies across various caseloads. In the second year, the post holder will specialise in a chosen area for two days a week, working towards Band 6 competencies. The role involves assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults with communication and swallowing difficulties in diverse settings.
Key responsibilities
- Work as a Band 5 Speech and Language Therapist with full support, completing structured dysphagia training and newly qualified competencies.
- Work flexibly across various settings including acute wards, rehabilitation units, care homes, and community clinics.
- Assess, diagnose, and treat patients with communication and swallowing difficulties in settings like acute stroke, general medicine, and care homes.
- Participate in the Speech and Language Therapy Bank Holiday working rota.
- After 12 months, work two days a week in a specialist area of choice, developing competencies across clinical practice, leadership, education, and research.
Essential criteria
- BSc in Speech and Language
- Full UK Driving
- Experience (voluntary, paid or placement) of working with adults with communication and swallowing disorders
- Specialist knowledge in how to assess, diagnose and treat adults with speech, language, voice and swallowing difficulties.
- Robust knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act (2005).
Desirable criteria
- Experience of contributing to multidisciplinary team through discussion and negotiation therapy groups.
- Experience of running communication
- Experience of running dysphagia training
- Experience of running triage
- Experience of working an acute ward setting.
- Experience of working a rehabilitation unit.
- Able to prepare teaching materials for designated courses and to participate / lead in courses.
Useful to know
Agenda for Change 2024/25 pays Band 5 at £29,970 – £36,483 a year, across England.
This advert: £32,073 – £39,043 — outside the standard scale; check for HCAS/London weighting.
Posted 0d ago · Closes in 17d
Plenty of time to prepare a strong application.
Full advert · preview
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Speech and Language Therapist
The closing date is 04 October 2026
Job summary
Are you a newly qualified Speech and Language Therapist looking for an exciting opportunity to progress your career?
We have a rare opportunity to join our friendly and supportive team in Somerset.
This developmental post offers the opportunity to be fully supported at Band 5 Level with automatic progression to Band 6 on completion of the relevant competencies.
During the first year in post you be supported across a variety of caseloads to complete our in-house post graduate dysphagia program and your Newly Qualified Competencies.
In Year 2 there will be an opportunity to select a specialist area to work in for 2 days a week. You will work towards a set of competencies that support progression to Band 6 across the 4 pillars of AHP practice and towards your chosen specialism.
You will initially be based at Yeovil District Hospital. The base may change after the first year (to an alternative location in Somerset) depending on chosen specialist development.
We are seeking a motivated individual with a flexible approach who is able to take the initiative for their learning and development.
We offer excellent line management, clinical supervision and continuing professional development opportunities.
The Trust offers a robust and well regarded Preceptorship Scheme
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