Specialist Speech and Language Therapist with certificate of sponsorship to the UK
Important Visa Information
This position offers a certificate of sponsorship for international candidates who require skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK. Applicants must verify eligibility with the employer before applying, as sponsorship is subject to UK immigration requirements and the employer’s specific criteria.
Job Overview
East London NHS Foundation Trust seeks a Specialist Speech and Language Therapist for their Community Learning Disability Service (CLDS). This Band 6 permanent, full-time role offers £46,419 to £55,046 per annum inclusive of HCA. The post holder will contribute to the wider Speech and Language Therapy network across ELFT’s learning disability services.
About the Company
East London NHS Foundation Trust is committed to improving quality of life through values of We Care, We Respect, and We are Inclusive. They seek professionals who embody these principles when supporting service users, carers, and colleagues.
Job Details
Company: East London NHS Foundation Trust
Location: Beaumont House, Mile End Hospital, Bancroft Road, London, E1 4DG
Salary: £46,419 to £55,046 per annum Inc HCA
Employment Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time
Application Deadline: 20 February 2026
Reference Number: 363-TH7690773
Job Summary
This Band 6 position within CLDS involves active participation in ELFT’s Speech and Language Therapy network for learning disability services. The service comprises three integrated care programs: Transition; Community Health and Well-being; and Mental Health and Behavioural Support.
The post holder will independently manage caseloads, completing assessments and interventions for complex communication needs, dysphagia, and inclusive communication strategies in Tower Hamlets. Responsibilities include referral eligibility assessments and coverage of core service functions such as Duty.
Service development involvement is expected, including staying current with learning disability field advancements, contributing to audit and research, and implementing evidence-based practices.
Main Duties of the Job
Provide expert speech and language therapy assessment and intervention for adults with learning disabilities and their carers/families, including eligibility determinations for services.
Ensure CLDS therapy input reflects current best evidence-based practices and national standards.
Collect quantitative and qualitative data on referrals, interventions, and outcomes to inform service development and quality improvement initiatives.
Lead service development projects within CLDS and across ELFT, providing specialized speech and language therapy perspectives.
Promote integrated working within CLDS, with ELFT departments, LBTH social care teams, and external providers supporting Tower Hamlets residents with learning disabilities.
Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, primary/secondary healthcare services, and community organizations to ensure coordinated care pathways.
Conduct eligibility assessments for all adults referred to CLDS service programs.
Person Specification
Education/Qualification/Training
Essential:
- Degree or PG Diploma in Clinical Communication Studies from RCSLT-approved institution
- Current HCPC Registration and practicing license
- RCSLT Membership
- Clinical skills in communication assessment and therapy (AAC, signing, symbol systems)
Desirable:
- Post-basic dysphagia qualification
- Student supervision training
Experience
Essential:
-
>Minimum 18 months’ post-registration clinical experience with adults/children with learning disabilities
- Demonstrated experience assessing/intervening with complex cases including physical/sensory disabilities and mental health comorbidities
- Proficiency in electronic health record systems and data extraction for clinical reporting
Desirable:
- Clinical supervision experience for junior SLTs and students
li>Research and audit project experience
Knowledge and Skills
Essential:
- Advanced clinical knowledge across dysphagia and communication disorders
- Ability to adapt communication methods for cognitive, language, and cultural needs
li>Exceptional communication skills with diverse populations including high-emotion scenarios
>Expertise in augmentative communication systems
>Understanding of UK legislation affecting learning disability services
li>Knowledge of treatment models for complex learning disability presentations
>Commitment to Equal Opportunities principles
>Client-centered therapy practice expertise
>Self-management skills for prioritization and deadline management
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please follow these Apply Instructions:
- Visit the NHS Jobs website and submit your application
- Verify your UK skilled worker sponsorship eligibility with the employer
- Prepare required documents: CV, cover letter, and qualification certificates
li>Ensure current HCPC Registration or verify overseas registration process
li>Obtain criminal record certificates from all countries where you’ve resided 12+ months in the past 10 years
Apply Instructions
Repeat these instructions carefully:
- Submit application via NHS Jobs website
li>Contact employer to verify sponsorship eligibility
li>Prepare complete application documentation
li>Confirm HCPC Registration status
li>Provide criminal record certificates as required
Employer Information
Employer: East London NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Beaumont House, Mile End Hospital, Bancroft Road, London, E1 4DG
Website: https://www.elft.nhs.uk/
Contact: Bianca Gavranich (Clinical Lead SLT)
Email: bianca.gavranich@nhs.net
Phone: 07920232601
Sponsorship and Immigration Information
This employer offers Certificates of Sponsorship for qualified international candidates requiring skilled worker sponsorship. Applications from candidates needing sponsorship are welcomed and considered equally.
Post-April 2017, skilled worker applicants must present criminal record certificates from each country of 12+ month residence in the past decade. Adult dependents (18+) face identical requirements.
Applicants must hold current UK professional registration where applicable. Verify overseas qualification recognition via NHS Careers.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 to verify criminal history.
Additional Information
East London NHS Foundation Trust holds multiple accreditations including CQC Outstanding, Disability Confident Employer, and Stonewall Champion, demonstrating commitment to equality and inclusion.
The Trust actively welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age.
Privacy Notice
For information on personal data handling, visit: Privacy Notice
Supporting Documents
CLDS_Permanent SALT Band 6 Job Description – December 2025.pdf (PDF, 409 KB)