Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) plays a crucial role in supporting communication and swallowing development among infants, children, and young people.
Fiona Ford serves as the SLT Manager for South Glasgow, collaborating closely with SLT Managers throughout Glasgow City and Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GG&C). Her role is strategic, focusing on leading local SLT services while participating in committees and projects that promote understanding of communication and swallowing differences.
“My work involves a lot of collaboration,” Fiona explains. “I partner with professionals from health, education, social work, and third sector organisations to ensure a comprehensive support system for those we serve.”
In addition, Fiona actively contributes to autism diagnostic assessments, working alongside a multidisciplinary team of speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, neurodevelopmental nurses, and paediatricians.
Erin Robertson (pictured) is one of the Speech and Language Therapists in the South of Glasgow, who complements this effort through her work, focusing on direct interventions that address communication challenges.
SLT primarily revolves around educating parents, caregivers, and professionals about communication and swallowing differences in infants, children, and young people. This education occurs through direct interactions with families or collaborations with other professionals.
“SLTs with specific qualifications can assess and support children with difficulties in eating, drinking, and swallowing, which may stem from physical or sensory challenges,” said Fiona. They provide invaluable advice on safe feeding practices, positioning, and dietary needs.
Erin adds, “Our role also involves identifying and supporting communication needs, ensuring that children have the tools they need to express themselves.”
This work may include developing individualised action plans that cater to the unique needs of each child. While one-on-one therapy sessions are sometimes held, the real impact comes from empowering those around the child to understand and support their communication needs.
“Compassionate care is central to our work,” Fiona states, “and we strive to offer families choices regarding their care.”
A misunderstanding is that SLTs can independently make children talk. “Our role is to help caregivers interpret children’s communication styles and provide strategies to enhance these skills,” Fiona clarifies.
Another misconception is that speech sound difficulties hinder reading development. “We know that children can learn to read regardless of their articulation skills, and SLTs focus on communication enhancement rather than directly teaching reading,” she adds.
SLTs provide essential services to individuals aged 0 to 18, increasingly assisting children on the autism spectrum. “With increased awareness of neurodivergence, we have seen more referrals for children who may be autistic,” Fiona explains.
Building supportive relationships with families is key, as SLTs help them understand and navigate their child’s unique communication profile while fostering a neuro-affirming approach that acknowledges individual strengths.
Communication is vital with potential referrers too, including health visitors, school staff, and parents. “Engaging in conversations about the child’s communication profile allows us to tailor our support effectively,” Fiona adds, ensuring timely assistance.
Erin emphasises the importance of proactive communication with families. “It’s all about being accessible and transparent, allowing families to feel heard and involved in the process,” she said.
The SLT team includes Support Workers and qualified SLTs. Clinical support workers and a bilingual co-workers help implement plans designed by SLTs, providing direct communication coaching to families and other partners.
“Coaching involves early communication strategies for parents and guidance on enhancing the communication environment,” Fiona shares.
Erin adds, “This team approach enables us to provide comprehensive support tailored to each child’s needs, making our interventions more effective.”
By dispelling misconceptions and emphasising collaboration, SLTs strive to make a lasting difference in the lives of infants, children, young people, and their families.
For more information about Speech and Language Therapy services in your area, click here.
