AHP Passport

Working in dysphagia as a Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) is a rewarding, fast-paced, and highly skilled area of practice — and one that’s often overlooked by newly qualified SLTs unsure of where to specialise. If you’re someone who enjoys clinical work with a tangible impact, dysphagia could be a fulfilling path to explore. What Is Dysphagia? Dysphagia refers to difficulties with eating, drinking, and swallowing, and can occur across the lifespan — from premature infants to elderly adults. SLTs play a crucial role in assessing and managing dysphagia, working closely with multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to ensure patients can eat and drink safely, or to reduce their risk of aspiration and malnutrition. Where Do SLTs Work in Dysphagia? Dysphagia roles can be found in a variety of settings across the UK: Acute hospitals – e.g. stroke wards, intensive care, head and neck cancer units Community teams – supporting patients in care homes, clinics, or at home Paediatric serv...

  Here are some of the key specialisms available for SLTs in the UK: 👶 Paediatrics: Working with children in schools, clinics or hospitals Speech sound disorders Language delay/disorder (DLD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Early years (under 5s) Cleft palate or voice disorders Paediatric dysphagia 🧠 Adults: Working with individuals aged 18+ in acute settings (hospitals), or in community (homes, care homes) Stroke specialist services Acquired brain injury Progressive neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s, MND, MS) Dysphagia specific services Dementia Voice Fluency (e.g., stammering/stuttering) 🧑‍🦽 Complex Needs / Learning Disabilities Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) Severe and complex disabilities AAC 🎙️ Voice & Fluency Functional or organic voice disorders Trans ...

  ❓ 1. Do I need to register with any official body to work as an SLT in the UK? Yes. You must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) — it’s a legal requirement for practicing as an SLT in the UK. 🔗 hcpc-uk.org ❓ 2. I qualified outside the UK — can I still work as an SLT? Yes, but you’ll need to apply for HCPC registration as an international applicant . You must prove that your qualifications, clinical hours, and training match UK standards. https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/working-health/overseas-health-professionals ❓ 3. Is IELTS required for registration? Yes, if English isn’t your first language. You’ll need IELTS Academic/General: Minimum overall 8.0, with no band less than 7.5. IELTS also is needed when you apply for your visa, so ensure that you take a UKVI approved version of the IELTS. ❓ 4. What kind of visa do I need to work as an SLT in the UK? You’ll need a Skilled Worker Visa . SLTs are on the UK Sh...

  Registering to work as an SLT in the UK To apply for a job as a Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) in the UK , there are several important steps you'll need to follow — from qualifications to registration and job applications. Here’s a clear step-by-step breakdown: ✅ 1. Gain the Required Qualifications You’ll need at least one of the following: A Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy, or A Master’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy ✅ 2. Register with the HCPC Once you have your degree: You must register with the Health and Care Professionals Council to legally practice as an SLT in the UK. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/ If you’re applying from abroad, there’s an international application process which includes providing transcripts, evidence of UG/PG course information and English language proficiency   Processing by HCPC takes time, hence apply in advance and ens...