Adult Speech and Language Therapy - SLT

The adult speech and language therapy (SLT) service accepts referrals for people who have speech, language and communication difficulties as well as swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). 

Support offered

  • Triage – People referred to the service will be offered a triage appointment. If they need further help they will be offered an assessment and a package of care
  • Assessment and treatment – The speech and language therapist may see patients individually, as part of a group, face to face or via telehealth (telephone, video call) depending on their needs. They may give advice about practical support or exercises to practice
  • Discharge – Once the package of care is complete, patients are discharged from the service

Accessing the service

Referral guidelines

Online referral form 

Who should be referred

The service is available to patients registered with a Barnsley GP, presenting with speech, language, communication and/or swallowing difficulties and who meet our referral criteria.

People who are experiencing difficulties resulting from Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, Motor Neurone Disease, Progressive Supra Nuclear Palsy, Multi System Atrophy, respiratory illness e.g. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder, general decline and End of Life Care may benefit from a referral.   Support is also available for people with Developmental Language Disorder or who stammer.

Referral exclusions

  • Patients with a newly acquired traumatic brain injury are seen by the Neurological Rehabilitation Team, for the first 6 months after injury.  After discharge, further help can be requested from our team.
  • Patients who have had a stroke are seen by Stroke Rehabilitation Services, for up to 6 months post onset.  After discharge, further help can be requested from our team.
  • Patients with Disorders of Voice and Ear, Nose and Throat related conditions such as Head and Neck Cancer or Vocal Nodules should be referred to Speech and Language Therapy, Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (01226 432377)
  • Patients with Learning Disability/Autism should be referred to the Barnsley Adult Learning Disability Health Service (01226 645237)
  • Adult Community Speech and Language Therapy do not offer a service for patients with mental health-related eating and drinking difficulties such as Pica or eating non-food substances.  However, if they are having swallowing difficulties, please refer.

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