RCSLT is working in partnership with the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS), the British Association of Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People (BATOD), and other stakeholders to develop a competency framework for speech and language therapists (SLTs) working with deaf and hard of hearing children and young people. The framework content is being informed by engagement and consultation with users.
The project was established in response to the recognised need for a UK-wide framework that describes the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to deliver high-quality speech and language therapy services for deaf and hard of hearing children and young people. The framework will support SLTs throughout their careers, from newly qualified practitioners to advanced and specialist clinicians. It will also help services, managers, commissioners, educators and families understand the level of expertise required to meet the needs of this population.
The project aims to:
- define the competencies required for SLTs working with deaf and hard of hearing children and young people
- support workforce development and career progression
- promote consistency and quality of care across services
- provide a resource that can be used by practitioners, services, educators and commissioners
- support equitable access to specialist speech and language therapy services across the UK
- reflect the needs and priorities of deaf and hard of hearing children and young people and their families
- align with relevant policy, professional and service developments across the four nations of the UK.
The competency framework is currently under development and will published on the RCSLT website.
