What are the Speech and Swallowing team at LCH?

• We are a team of Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) who are healthcare professionals.
• We help adults with communication and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia).

When should I see the Speech and Swallowing Team?

• You should see an SLT if you are concerned about your speech and/or swallowing.
• If you are concerned about your speech and/or swallowing then a healthcare professional can refer you to SLT (your GP, for example).

What should I expect in my initial appointment?

• Your first appointment will involve taking a case history and assessment of your communication and/or swallowing needs.
• This will allow us to identify how our service may be able to help you and recommend appropriate therapy options.
• The initial appointment may be carried out in our clinic or at your home. This will be discussed when booking.

What will happen after my initial appointment?

• You may be referred to other healthcare professionals (physiotherapy, dietetics, occupational therapy, etc.) to help manage your symptoms.
• We may suggest what type of therapy you may benefit from, if appropriate. This could include individual therapy, group therapy, face-to-face or virtual.
• You may be seen for a one-off assessment, with education and advice and indicators of what to look out for and when to request a re-referral.

What will therapy be like?

• Therapy aims to help you with your communication and/or swallowing difficulties.
• The therapy programme is tailored to your needs based on your initial assessment results and how your symptoms are affecting your life currently.

Therapy may include but is not limited to:

• Rehabilitation exercises to help your swallow.
• A block of individual speech and/or swallow therapy either in your home or a clinic.
• A block of group therapy for speech and/or swallowing.
  Supporting your family, friends and carers in how they can support and what they can do to help.

Click here for more information on Swallowing problems (Dysphagia)