Referral - Information to Parents

Speech and Language Therapy Clinic Service Information for Families

What do Speech and Language Therapists do?

We are part of NHS Tameside and Glossop. We work with children aged 0-16 years and their families and help children who:

have unclear speech
are late talkers
have difficulty understanding language
have difficulties with social use of language
are stammering
have feeding difficulties
have any other communication problems

Why is it important for my child to see a Speech and Language Therapist?

Many children have difficulties with communication – some will grow out of it but some will need more specialist help. Research has shown that the sooner they get this help the better. Without support children may develop difficulties with reading and writing, friendships and self-confidence.

Information on attending clinic

It will help us provide a better service for everyone if you:

let us know as soon as possible if you can’t attend your appointment (using the number on your appointment letter)
attend your appointment on time
understand that you may need to attend regular appointments – where possible these will be arranged at a time to suit you

How does a Speech and Language Therapist help?

The first appointment

You will be invited to attend an appointment in clinic with your child. At this appointment the Speech and Language Therapist will:

talk to you about your child and any concerns you may have
assess your child’s communication skills. This will probably mean your child will look at pictures or play with toys
decide with you what further action is needed to help your child (if any).

What happens next?

Sometimes the best thing to do is wait and see if your child makes progress. The Speech and Language Therapist would see you again in a few months, or ….

Further treatment could be…

written advice on activities you can do at home with your child
regular individual or group sessions with a Speech and Language Therapist
parent groups
occasional visits to school/nursery

In order to help your child as much as we can, we like to involve their school/nursery with your permission. We also regularly send reports to GPs and Health Visitors with your permission.

Can I refuse to give permission for referral to Speech and Language Therapy?

Your child’s communication will only improve if you are involved. We only work with children with the permission and support of their parents/carers.

Who do I contact if I want further information?

The Speech and Language Therapy office is based at
Tameside Hospital
Tel 0161 331 5156

Please contact us if you would like this information in a different language.