Inspirational Story

What influenced your choice of profession?

I was always interested in psychology and English, after looking at combined honours, I realised that many placements involved being a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant. I looked into Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) and applied for that instead! 

What were your thoughts or expectations before the course?  

I remember attending open days and seeing minimal cultural diversity, something I’ve always been so used to so it was a different type of culture shock! I spoke with my mum and we decided I’d still go ahead with applying!  I thought we’d be helping people with a range of communication difficulties, which is pretty accurate! 

Have you had any lightbulb moments?

As SLT’s, we aren’t looking to “fix” a communication difficulty, we are looking to support someone on their journey and find the reasonable adjustments they need for an accessible communication environment. 

Shy bairns get nowt! If you don’t ask, you don’t get. Sometimes it helps to think aloud with your colleagues to get the result needed for your patient. 

What does your current role look like?

I’ve had a few different roles in my 4 years since qualifying, between Hyderabad (India), Doncaster and Newcastle!

My current role is in Community Learning Disability for adults. I’m often driving around Newcastle and visiting people in their homes and sometimes with their families or staff teams.

Mostly, I’m looking for tools to enhance the opportunities someone has to get their message across or workshops with staff/families to support an accessible communication environment.

What do you love about SLT?

I love helping people find their voice, whether that be with symbols, pictures, written and through behavioral presentations.

Each persons communication style is so different and it always feels like I’m learning something new! This will never stop!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I’ve been a part of various antiracism groups and discussions. I’d really advocate for everyone to look into this to be aware of racism our patients, colleagues or ourselves could experience whilst at work (or out of work!). The more we’re clued up about it, the better for everyone!