RCAS Therapy Team Lead

Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear (CNTW) NHS Foundation Trust

The Regional Communication Aid Service (RCAS) is a regional specialised service commissioned by NHS England. We provide specialised assessments and provision of communication equipment to adults and children across the North-East and North Cumbria who have complex communication needs.

We are seeking an experienced Registered Clinician who is able to meet the knowledge and skills applicable to the post, who is looking for a development opportunity to expand their skills and experience within this specialist Regional Communication Aid Service. The post holder will provide clinical and professional leadership to the team to ensure the highest possible quality of care.

The post holder will lead the therapy team and related clinical aspects of service provision, working jointly with the Technical Team Lead to achieve operation and performance in line with the NHS E service specification.

The post holder will work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team, clients, carers and other professionals to provide specialised, evidence-based assessment and equipment provision.

Main Duties of the Job

• Responsibility and accountability for ensuring the delivery of safe, effective and efficient care to service users and their carers within the Regional Communication Aid Service (RCAS).
• To be responsible for the initial assessment and resulting prescription of highly complex Specialist Bespoke Communication Aid configurations for clients across the Northern Region and subsequent client reviews and related issues (e.g. re-assessments).
• Contribute to appraisal, professional and personal development of the RCAS staff.
• Identify and organise the delivery of appropriate clinical training for the RCAS staff in order to ensure that the highest standard of evidence-based clinical interventions are provided.
• To lead the education and training of professionals including the upskilling of local speech and language therapy services on behalf of the Regional Communication Aid Service.
• Lead on and ensure timely clinical audit systems are in place.
• Assist the designated Clinical Business Unit (CBU) and Service Lead with Integrated Governance, individual practitioner performance and team development.
• To manage the staff and non-staff budget for the service in collaboration with the Technical Team Lead.

Job Responsibilities

The post holder will lead the therapy team and related clinical aspects of service provision, working jointly with the Technical Team Lead to achieve operation and performance in line with the NHS E service specification, reporting to the Long-Term Conditions Lead.

It is expected that the post holder will demonstrate competent clinical practice and continue to further develop clinical knowledge and skills with relevant training and clinical supervision. Regular support and supervision will be available, and the post holder will be expected to actively engage in the supervision and the continuing professional development process.

The following should be considered as essential:

• Specialist knowledge and clinical experience in this field of electronic assistive technology.
• Specialist knowledge in the provision of Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) prescribed solutions.
• Significant relevant clinical skills gained through demonstrated experience.
• Ability to carry out complex assessments of client needs and provide and monitor technological solutions involving specialist assessment for assistive technology interventions, especially AAC solutions for clients with severe and often complex physical disabilities.

Person Specification

Education and Qualification

• Recognised degree or equivalent.
• HCPC/RCT or equivalent registered.
• Evidence of successful completion of specialist short courses and other relevant CPD to Masters level equivalence.
• Field work educators qualification.
• Registered member of relevant professional body e.g. Speech & Language Therapy, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy.

Knowledge and Experience

• Proven track record of post-registration clinical experience relevant to the post. Awareness and understanding of professional accountability, e.g. HCPC and RCOT standards, IPEM Codes of Conduct, etc., and other local and national initiatives.
• Experience of working within a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience of providing assessment services.
• Awareness of equal opportunities legislation and policies.
• Experience of collaborative working across agencies and professional disciplines.
• Proven ability to manage a clinical caseload in a flexible manner as required.
• Undertaking appraisals.
• Commitment to Partnership working both multi-agency and multidisciplinary.
• Evidence of successful completion of specialist short courses and other relevant CPD, to Masters Level.

Skills and Competencies

• Proven ability to carry out and provide comprehensive written assessments of individuals with complex needs.
• Risk Assessment and Risk Management / Safety Planning skills.
• Demonstrate an understanding of effective & appropriate treatment options including a range of evidence-based clinical approaches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Evidence of high level of professional organisational and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt within changing environment.
• Proven track record of acting as an effective advocate for service users and their carers.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including negotiation and conflict management.
• Evidence of effective organisational skills.
• Expert clinical supervision skills.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Advertising date: 6th February 2025.

We welcome your application.