Waiting and Access in Therapy - Understanding Perspectives in SLT (#WaitUpSLT)

In the last blog post, I talked about what to do whilst waiting for speech and language therapy for your child . I hope that the recommended strategies and supports will be useful but you may feel that they are an inadequate replacement for specialist speech and language therapy, personalised to your child.  You’re not alone. In England, long waits for community health services - including speech and language therapy - are an ongoing source of concern for parents and professionals alike. So, here is a guide to some steps you can take if you’re unhappy about the wait: how to advocate for your child, where to go for support, and how to raise your voice to push for change. 1. Start by Understanding the System You’re Navigating Children’s SLT in England is usually delivered by local NHS community health trusts, commissioned by Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). Waiting times vary hugely by area and are affected by: Numbers of referrals Vacancies and/or posts not being replaced once therapi...

If your child has been referred for speech and language therapy, you might be feeling a mix of relief, hope, and maybe some frustration. Waiting can feel like an endless and uncertain process, especially when you are worried about your child.  You might already have access to information and support during the wait, but if not, here are some ideas that might help: 1. Stay connected with your Speech and Language Therapy service If you've been referred to your local NHS community speech and language therapy service, you can contact them directly to: Check that your child's referral has been received Ask about current waiting times Find out whether they offer any drop-in sessions or workshops for families on the waiting list for support. Many services share useful advice and strategies on their websites, so it's worth exploring online. If you are considering private speech and language therapy support, you can find guidance about what to consider when choosing a therapist and ...