I am a person with a speech or swallowing problem
Who we are
We are a team of speech and language therapists (SLTs). We work with adults who have difficulties with communication or swallowing. Our aim is to help people understand their difficulties, explore options, and make informed choices about what matters most to them.
If you’re noticing changes in your speech, communication or swallowing, you may find our service helpful.
The Speech and Swallowing team provide a service for the following patient groups (with a swallowing or communication need):
- neurological
- frailty
- respiratory
- end of life
If you do not fall in these categories or have other conditions there may be alternative services for you. For more information, visit the is this service right for me? page.
There are often simple self‑management ideas that we recommend people try first, which may resolve the issues you are facing.
If you’re unsure what you need, you can start by looking at our self‑management information, which offers practical tips many people find useful.
What to expect at your first appointment
Your first appointment gives us time to get to know you, understand what’s been going on, and explore together how your communication or swallowing changes are affecting day‑to‑day life.
During this appointment, we will:
- listen to your concerns and what matters most to you
- take a case history and carry out relevant assessments
- discuss possible next steps with you, including self‑management, therapy options, or other services that might help
Appointments may take place in a clinic or at home. This will be discussed when booking.
What will happen after the first appointment?
Together, we will agree on the most helpful next steps. These might include:
- A therapy plan with our team, such as individual sessions, group sessions, or virtual appointments
- Advice, information and management strategies you can use independently
- Referral to another healthcare professional (for example, physiotherapy, dietetics or occupational therapy) if this better matches your needs
- You may only need one assessment with personalised advice and information about what to look out for and when to seek help again
What will therapy be like?
If therapy is the right option for you, it will be shaped around:
- your priorities
- your assessment results
- how your communication or swallowing is affecting your everyday life
Therapy may include:
- exercises to improve your swallowing
- one‑to‑one therapy at home or in a clinic
- group sessions
- support and guidance for family, friends or carers so they can help in ways that work for you
Referrals
Referrals can be made to the Speech and Swallowing team via your GP or any heath or social care professional including senior care home staff, using:
For professionals, the referral form can be found on Leeds Care Pathways.
Further information
If you would like more information about speech and swallowing difficulties please use our website resources:
