Senior Speech and Language Therapist (Maternity Cover) – Talbot Group

Purpose of the Role
The successful candidate will have responsibility for the provision of a quality Speech and Language Therapy service to residents / clients of the Talbot Group.
The Speech and Language Therapy Service works collaboratively with residents / clients, families, frontline staff teams and the comprehensive multi-disciplinary team in providing a service to safely and effectively manage the feeding, eating, drinking and swallowing needs in addition to optimising the communication environments for our clients in accordance with the Total Communication Initiative of the service.

Reporting Relationship
To be confirmed following review of MDT structure and processes.
Clinical supervision is available with a suitably qualified and experienced Principal Speech and Language Therapist.
Salary
Commensurate to qualifications and experience
Health
A candidate for and any person holding the office must be fully competent and capable of undertaking the duties attached to the office and be a in a state of health as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to attend regular and efficient service.
Character
Each candidate for and any person holding the office must be of good character.
Other Requirements specific to the post
Access to own transport
Full Driving License

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential
Qualifications
Essential
(i) Bachelor of Science in Clinical Speech and Language Studies, University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin.
or
(ii) Bachelor of Science (Speech and Language Therapy), University College Cork
or
(iii) Bachelor of Science (Speech and Language Therapy), National University of Ireland, Galway
or
(iv) Master of Science in Speech and Language Therapy (Professional Qualification), University of Limerick
or
A Speech and Language qualification which has been approved with CORU
Registered with CORU
a suitable standard of professional attainments
the requisite knowledge and ability (including a high standard of suitability and ability) for the proper discharge of the office
Recognised qualification in the Assessment and Management of Clients with Feeding, Eating, Drinking and Swallowing Disorders

Desirable
Training in Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)
Completion of Lámh training course
Experience

Essential
At least three years post-graduate adult clinical Speech and Language Therapy experience
Suitable clinical experience in the management of feeding, eating, drinking and swallowing disorders
Desirable

Experience in working with adults with intellectual disabilities / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Experience in working with adults with acquired brain injuries / neurological conditions in the context of long-term residential care
Experience in working collaboratively with multi-disciplinary colleagues in supporting the needs of adult clients with behaviours of concern
Previous experience as a Senior Speech and Language Therapist

PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
General:
Demonstrate an understanding of the Talbot Group and our Mission, Vision and our Values
Professional knowledge and skills:
Demonstrate the requisite clinical knowledge and high level of competence in the delivery of appropriate Speech and Language Therapy assessment, intervention and evidence-based practice with our client groups.
Demonstrate the ability to appropriately disseminate relevant information about assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, implementation and evaluation of treatment to all relevant parties; client, family, frontline staff teams, multi-disciplinary colleagues, external professionals
Demonstrate and apply relevant clinical experience in the assessment and management of feeding, eating, drinking and swallowing disorders
Collaborate with client, family, carers and other staff in appropriate goal setting and treatment / intervention planning
Attend and participate in relevant meetings and case conferences on behalf of the SLT Service
Provide clinical supervision and line management to Basic Grade Speech and Language Therapist
Represent the department and engage in active service planning for the Speech and Language Therapy service
Take an active role in continuing to implement and further enhance the Total Communication Initiative across the service
Demonstrate the ability to work with multiple stakeholders across clinical and non-clinical services with the objective of optimising the communication status of clients in line with current HSE and HIQA standards and practice
Demonstrate the ability to consider the significant impact of other comorbidities e.g mental health needs on an individual’s communication presentation and ability to fully access services and manage SLT priorities in conjunction with other treatments
Demonstrate evidence of and commitment to continuing professional development
Demonstrate experience or an interest in working with adult clients with complex needs including behaviours of concern

Communication / interpersonal skills:
Demonstrate sufficient command of the English language both verbal and written to effectively carry out the duties and responsibilities of the role
Demonstrate the ability to use a variety of strategies to engage in skilled, compassionate, individualised and timely communication with adults with communication needs, their families, frontline care staff and members of the multidisciplinary team
Display awareness and appreciation of the service users and the ability to empathise with and treat others with dignity and respect
Demonstrate the ability to be able to offer advice and training where required on the use of communication skills to effectively de-escalate situations in the event of a crisis incident
Leadership skills:
Demonstrate the ability to lead the SLT service taking over projects where appropriate and making further progress on such projects towards completion
Demonstrate the ability to work in a busy environment having clinical responsibility and accountability for the SLT caseload
Demonstrates self-awareness of own strengths and areas for development in addition to the ability to self-reflect

Planning and organisational skills:
Demonstrate the ability to plan and deliver care in an effective and resourceful manner within a model of person-centred care
Demonstrate the ability to plan, organise and manage time effectively
Demonstrate flexibility and the ability to work effectively within a changing healthcare environment
Balancing clinical demands with other responsibilities (e.g. departmental responsibilities, service planning, CPD) through effective time management and organisational skills
Problem-solving & Decision-making
Demonstrate the ability to effectively evaluate information and make appropriate decisions accordingly
Providing a Quality Service
Demonstrate a commitment to assuring high standards of service delivery, audit and service evaluation
Demonstrate an understanding of the impact and implication of current wider healthcare developments and changes on the delivery of services within the organisation
Demonstrate the ability to plan and supervise clinical and operational supervision effectively
Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the SLT service within the larger organisation

Effective Teamwork:
Demonstrate effective team skills including the ability to work collaboratively as a member of the multi-disciplinary team alongside Psychiatry, Clinical Neuro-Psychologist, Behavioural Specialists, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Dietetics and Social Work
Provide advice and support in facilitating joint sessions with other team members as required e.g. Functional capacity assessments, assisted-decision making
Demonstrate a team-based, consultative and highly flexible approach
Promoting team working by participating in teams, communicating, providing leadership and keeping the rights and needs of the client central to such participation

Education & Training:
Demonstrate a level of competency in IT, training and presentation skills relevant to the position
Provide training to frontline staff with regard to individual clients’ communication profiles, communication supports and FEDS Support Plans

Health & Safety:
Comply with the policies, procedures and safe professional practice of the Talbot Group in accordance with internal policies and external legislation. Regulations and standards
Work in a safe manner with due care and attention to the safety of self and others
Be aware of risk management issues, identify risks and take appropriate action
Comply with Talbot Group procedures with regard to assessment, recommendation and/or manufacturing of all assistive devices
Promote a culture that values diversity and respect
The job description is a guide to the general range of duties assigned to the position holder. It is intended to be neither definitive, nor restrictive and is subject to periodic review.
As part of the recruitment process we will keep your application and the personal data contained therein for a period of 12 months. Please inform us when applying for a position with the Talbot Group if you do not wish to have your information retained for this period.

To apply for this position or to request a copy of the job specification, please contact Amanda McKnight, HR – admin@talbotgroup.ie
Application Closing Date: Friday 10th July 2020

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