Celebrating the profession as the RCSLT turns 80

16 January 2025

This January, we mark our 80th anniversary—a moment to reflect on our rich history and look forward to an inspiring future

Founded during the challenges of World War II, the College of Speech and Language Therapists held its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 6 January 1945, after postponing initial plans due to air raids in London. It wasn’t until 1995 that we were granted the prestigious ‘Royal’ title. 

Find out more about the history of the RCSLT 

From its inception, the RCSLT has grown into a thriving professional body representing nearly 23,000 members who transform lives by supporting people with communication and swallowing needs across diverse sectors. 

 

Cover of Bulletin Magazine commemorating the 80th year of the RCSLT . Winter 2024-2025 issue 841

Special edition of Bulletin out now

As we embark on our 80th year, we’re excited to launch a year-long celebration of our profession, starting with a special commemorative edition of Bulletin. This issue highlights inspiring member stories and features a selection of photos that we commissioned to capture the essence of speech and language therapy in the UK today. As well as a memorable Q+A between a retired member and student SLTs, we’ve also got our regular articles and opinions from experts in the field. Plus our packed letters and member snaps pages showing some of the things our very active membership get up to on a daily basis.  

Get involved

We invite all members and partners to join the celebrations throughout 2025. Participate by committing to our eight pledges, hosting your own events and engaging in other planned activities. Visit our RCSLT at 80 page for information and resources you can use and stay tuned to our website and e-news for updates. 

Together, let’s celebrate the incredible work of speech and language therapists and look ahead to even greater achievements in the years to come.