Your child has been referred for an assessment by our speech and language therapists.
This usually takes place in either a clinic, family hub, at home or at nursery/school.
We can help and support children and young people who have difficulties in areas such as:
- Understanding
- Talking
- Speech sounds
- Social skills
- Stammering
- Voice
What happens when my child’s speech, language and communication needs have been identified?
We work in an "episode of care" approach.
After assessment, we will put in place some activities and advice to help your child. We also work alongside the people involved with your child (e.g. parents/carers, school, nursery staff) to show them how they can complete these activities.
The therapist may also work jointly with other services that support your child.
We work together to set joint targets and we may provide training on specific strategies.
Discharge
We will discharge your child when key people feel confident with carrying out the activities and advice provided.
We welcome re-referrals if your child's language and/or communication needs change following discharge.
Children with long-term diagnoses like Autism or Developmental Language Disorder will likely have ongoing communication needs. The best way to support them is by helping the important people around them – like you, family, and school staff – learn the right skills and strategies. This empowers everyone to create a supportive environment where your child can thrive every day.
Consent
We will ensure that we have your consent before we assess or provide support for your child.
Patient Advice and Liaison Service
The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) acts on behalf of service users, families, and carers to negotiate prompt solutions and help bring about changes in the way that services are developed.
As well as providing a confidential advice and support service, PALS will help guide you through the different services available from the NHS.
Telephone: 0161 778 5665
Email: pals@nca.nhs.uk
Alternatively, you can write to: PALS & Complaints Department, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, 2nd Floor, Horton House, Hamilton Street, Oldham, OL4 1DE.
Comments and complaints
We want to learn from comments and complaints about our services. If you have any, please speak with a member of staff. Every effort will be made to resolve any concerns and complaining will not cause any difficulties in your care with us.
Telephone: 0161 656 1141
E-mail: office.complaints@nca.nhs.uk
Alternatively, you can write to: PALS & Complaints Department, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, 2nd Floor, Horton House, Hamilton Street, Oldham, OL4 1DE.
Contact us
Specialist Speech and Language Therapy Team
Complex Needs Team
Werneth Primary Care Centre
Featherstall Road South Oldham
OL9 7AY
Tel: 0161 206 1442
Email: saltreferralcn@nca.nhs.uk
Clinic & Mainstream Schools Team
Oldham Integrated Care Centre
New Radcliffe St Oldham, OL1 1NL
Tel: 0161 206 1452
Email: childsaltoldham@nca.nhs.uk
Date of Review: May 2025
Date of Next Review: May 2027
Ref No: PI_DS_905 (Oldham)