SLT Information

What is a Speech and Language Therapist?

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) are qualified to work with individuals or groups of people who have difficulties with communication, or with eating, drinking and swallowing. Speech and language therapists are predominantly employed by public sector organisations, such as a National Health Service, Education Services or a social or welfare service. Other therapists work for private education services or charities and some therapists work independently. Speech and language therapists work in many settings including community health centres, hospitals, clinics, schools and in their clients' homes. A speech and language therapist is committed to the prevention, intervention, management and scientific study of communication and associated disorders. SLTs work with many groups of patients:

Infants and children with:

  • feeding and swallowing problems
  • mild, moderate or severe learning difficulties
  • physical disabilities
  • language delay
  • specific language impairment
  • specific difficulties in producing sounds
  • hearing impairment
  • cleft palate
  • stammering
  • autism/social interaction difficulties
  • dyslexia
  • voice disorders
Adults with:
  • eating and swallowing and/or communication problems associated with neurological conditions.
  • cancer
  • voice problems
  • mental health issues
  • learning difficulties
  • physical disabilities
  • stammering (dysfluency)
  • hearing impairment