Speech and Language Therapist Jobs in the UK: Role, Responsibilities & Career Path

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) play a vital role in helping people of all ages communicate effectively and manage swallowing difficulties. In the UK, demand for qualified Speech and Language Therapists continues to grow across healthcare, education, and social care settings.

If you’re considering a career as a Speech and Language Therapist, or searching for your next SLT role, this guide explains what the job involves, where you can work, and how to get started.

What Does a Speech and Language Therapist Do?

A Speech and Language Therapist assesses, diagnoses, and treats individuals with communication, speech, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties. Patients may include:

• Children with delayed speech or language development

• Adults recovering from stroke or brain injury

• Individuals with learning disabilities or autism

• People with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease

SLTs work closely with families, carers, teachers, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to deliver tailored therapy plans.

Typical Responsibilities of a Speech and Language Therapist

While duties vary by setting, most Speech and Language Therapists in the UK will:

• Assess speech, language, and communication needs

• Develop personalised therapy programmes

• Deliver one-to-one or group therapy sessions

• Monitor progress and adapt treatment plans

• Provide advice and training to parents, carers, and professionals

• Maintain accurate clinical records

Where Do Speech and Language Therapists Work?

Speech and Language Therapists work in a wide range of settings, including:

• NHS hospitals and community clinics

• Special educational needs (SEN) schools

• Mainstream schools and early years settings

• Private practices and clinics

• Charities and voluntary organisations

• Care homes and rehabilitation centres

Many SLTs also choose flexible working patterns, including part-time roles, locum work, or private practice.

How to Become a Speech and Language Therapist in the UK

To practise as a Speech and Language Therapist in the UK, you must:

1. Complete a HCPC-approved degree in Speech and Language Therapy (BSc or MSc)

2. Register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

3. Maintain continuing professional development (CPD)

Some professionals enter the field through postgraduate conversion courses, making it an attractive option for career changers.

Skills and Qualities Needed

Successful Speech and Language Therapists typically have:

• Excellent communication and listening skills

• Patience, empathy, and emotional intelligence

• Strong problem-solving abilities

• Organisation and record-keeping skills

• The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Salary Expectations for Speech and Language Therapists

In the UK, Speech and Language Therapist salaries typically range from:

• £28,000 – £35,000 for newly qualified SLTs (Band 5 NHS roles)

• £35,000 – £43,000 for experienced therapists (Band 6–7)

• Higher earnings are possible in private practice or specialist roles

Career Progression and Specialisms

Speech and Language Therapists can specialise in areas such as:

• Paediatric speech and language therapy

• Adult neurological rehabilitation

• Dysphagia (swallowing disorders)

• Autism and learning disabilities

• Voice therapy

With experience, SLTs may progress into senior, advanced practitioner, management, teaching, or research roles.

Find Speech and Language Therapist Jobs in the UK

Whether you’re newly qualified or an experienced practitioner, there are excellent opportunities across the UK for Speech and Language Therapists.

At Voceer, you can explore the latest Speech and Language Therapist jobs in the UK, filter by location, sector, and experience level, and apply directly to employers, completely free.