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Introducing WAIT-UP SLT

Waiting and Access In Therapy - Understanding Perspectives in Speech and Language Therapy (WAIT-UP SLT) is a multi-stage research project that aims to explore perspectives and experiences of waiting in children's speech and language therapy services in England. 

Whilst speech and language therapy waiting lists and times have long been a source of concern, there has been limited attention paid to this issue specifically within academic and published research. This project aims to address this gap by exploring the perspectives and experiences of:
  • Individuals working within speech and language therapy teams (including speech and language therapists, speech and language therapy assistants, managers and services leads and administrative and clerical staff
  • Parents and caregivers
  • Children and young people

Each phase will be designed in collaboration with advisory groups to ensure that the research is relevant, fit for purpose and as accessible as possible. 

It is hoped that through the research we will be able to:
  • Better understand within-group and cross-group experiences of children and young people, parents and caregivers and speech and language therapy services
  • Identify aspects of good practice
  • Identify issues of concern 
  • Suggest potential improvements that could be made to services
Findings will be shared as widely as possible to maximise the likelihood of positive influence and change. Key mechanisms for sharing findings are expected to include:
  • Research papers in academic journals
  • Academic and professional conferences
  • Community and charity forums and events
  • Charity websites
Updates about the research project, related activities and opportunities to get involved will be shared via this blog and the WAIT UP X account. Please bookmark and share with anyone who you think might be interested and if you have any questions, or would like to know more, please get in touch.

WAIT UP SLT © 2025 by Gillian Rudd is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

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