How do SLTs work with individual families and others?
We will always work together with those closest to the child to identify ways in which we can have a positive and lasting impact. Sometimes, we can give you reassurance or advice; sometimes children and their parents come to see us and sometimes we can give you activities to try at home.
Concerned about a child or young person’s speech?
If you have concerns about a child or young person’s speech, language and communication you can contact us in the following ways:
Parents and carers
Parents and carers can phone our Advice line on Tuesdays between 14:00-16:00 and Thursdays between 10:00-12:00 to speak to a therapist for reassurance or advice.
Parents and carers advice line: 01592 226699
Professionals
Professionals can phone our enquiry line on Mondays and Thursday between 14:00 – 16:00 to speak to a speech and language therapist.
Professionals enquiry line: 01383 674055
If you have tried the above and still have concerns about a child or young person’s speech, language and communication you can make a request for assistance. See below for how to do this.
Making a request for assistance
To make a request for assistance, please complete and return this form.
Please note
Please note for eating and drinking concerns, there is a different referral process. Please contact your GP or Health Visitor to discuss further
Initial Conversation
After a Request for Assistance has been received, our first step is to have a conversation with the person who knows and understands the child and the situation best, for example with the child’s parent or carer, health visitor, early years key worker or teacher. This helps us to find out more about what is happening for the child so that, together, we can work out the best next steps. This conversation can take place by phone, video call or be face to face with a therapist in clinic and it is just for the requester - we don’t need to see the child at this stage. We’ll see them later in the process if we need to.
We may simply reassure you that your child’s communication is at the appropriate level and that they are being supported in the right ways. We may suggest specific advice or give you information about groups and services in the community better placed to help.
Sometimes we may need to see you and your child to decide on the next steps. Plans are made with you and your child and sessions may take place in clinic, at home or in some cases in an education setting.
Video or Near Me appointments
Attend consultations via video - patient information leaflet
Links
