Down Syndrome Ireland is committed to being the leading source of information and support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the professional community.
Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our members by promoting respect and acceptance of people with Down syndrome as valued members of society. Speech and Language Therapy Assistants play a crucial role in the Down Syndrome Ireland Speech and Language therapy team.
Under the supervision and direction of a qualified Speech and Language Therapist, they help deliver high-quality and efficient Speech and Language Therapy supports.
This role involves supporting children in creches, preschools, and schools (both primary and post-primary), ensuring they receive the necessary communication support to thrive in their educational environments.
The Speech and Language Therapy Assistant will provide communication programmes in both one-on-one and group sessions. Responsibilities include: To work effectively as a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, incorporating therapy, support, and administrative roles. Facilitate therapy programmes under the direction and supervision of a Senior Speech and Language Therapist (SSLT). Co-facilitate or lead therapy groups under the direction and supervision of the SSLT. Prepare and set up treatment areas for individual or group therapy sessions, including tidying the area and storing away equipment used upon completion of the session. Document member contacts/interventions in the relevant member file. Develop rapport with members and their families, demonstrating a positive attitude, respect, and compassion in interactions. Liaise and communicate effectively with the SSLT and multi-disciplinary team members as appropriate to ensure coordinated intervention. Record accurate member statistics and perform other administrative duties. Develop therapy resources and materials under the direction of the Speech and Language Therapist. Maintain professional standards in relation to consent, confidentiality, ethics, and legislation. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively, particularly in listening, giving explanations/directions, and reporting back on observations. Demonstrate a positive attitude and the ability to empathize with members, relatives, and colleagues. Demonstrate ability and understanding in working with people with complex needs/disabilities and/or behaviour that challenges. Demonstrate evidence of enthusiasm and interest in working with children and people to carry out meaningful goals. Develop and maintain good working relationships with all grades of staff and professions. Demonstrate flexibility in the role, travelling to different clinical and educational settings. Qualifications/experience required: QQI level 5.
QQI Level 5 - Speech and Language Therapy Assistant or Relevant Qualification in the field of Health & Social Care Minimum 2 years' experience working in a health setting with children and adults with disabilities. Must have the personal competence and capacity to properly discharge the duties of the role. Knowledge of Lamh desirable Own transport and full clean driving licence. Demonstration of strong IT skills including Microsoft suite and report creation Locations: Sites across Waterford City and County Benefits: 25 days annual leave 2 Company/Discretionary Days Employee Assistance Programme