Areas of practice

Newly qualified practitioners (NQPs)

Where can I find resources and support to help me with my NQP competencies and throughout my NQP year?

The RCSLT has a number of resources to help support you through this important transitional period in your career. Log in to view our page for NQPs.

NHS

In what settings do SLTs work?

View our information on where SLTs work.

In what settings do SLTs work within the NHS?

Speech and language therapists work in all settings within the NHS, from acute adult wards to providing services to children within local schools, from general services to highly specialist settings.

For more information about the different areas SLTs work in:

• What is speech and language therapy?
• SLT work settings overview

How much do speech therapists earn in the NHS?

Visit the NHS careers website for information on pay scales.

Independent SLTs/practitioners

I’m thinking about working privately either alongside my NHS role or solely as an independent therapist, what do I need to be aware of?

In the current working climate many SLTs are looking at changing from working within the NHS to independent practice, or looking to take on private work when still working in the NHS.

HCPC registration allows registrants to work in either setting in the UK but there are a number of things that you may need to be aware of before to ensure that you are fully covered.

You can find more information at:

• Independent practice guidance
• Insurance information

Managers

What resources has the RCSLT developed to help support me as a manager of a team or service?

The RCSLT has developed a number of resources to help managers with specific challenges from workforce planning, to responding to cuts and proving the value and impact of your service:

• Service planning guidance
• Local influencing guidance
• Leadership resources

Speech and language therapy assistants/support workers

How do I become an SLTA?

Currently there is no set academic requirement in order to become an SLTA, instead there will be local requirements for these roles.

The best way to find assistant roles within the NHS is to check the NHS jobs website or to approach services directly to enquire about vacancies.

Can assistants/support workers join the RCSLT?

Of course, the RCSLT has a dedicated membership for assistant/support workers which provides access to a wealth of resources including Bulletin magazine.

Find out about the benefits of becoming an RCSLT member.

What resources does the RCSLT have to support me in my role as an assistant?

The RCSLT is developing a range of resources to support assistants and support workers within their role. See our project page to find out about our work in this area.

Working in schools

Where can I find out more information about my role as an SLT when working in/for a school?

The RCSLT has developed a wealth of resources for SLTs working in schools whether directly employed by the schools or through other external sources.

See our education guidance for information to support you in your role.

Justice sector

How and in what settings do SLTs work within the justice sector?

SLTs work with young people and adults in the community and in secure settings. Speech and language therapy significantly improves the communication skills of young offenders which reduces the risk of reoffending, increases access to rehabilitation and treatment programmes, and can improve an individual’s chances of engaging in education and employment.

Visit our page on working in the justice settings for information and resources.

Working abroad

I’m thinking about working abroad, what do I need to know?

The RCSLT does have a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) with a number of countries across the world such as USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Republic of Ireland, which is designed to facilitate the transference of qualifications gained in the UK to another country.

For information and resources, visit our page on working internationally as an SLT.