FAQs
Do I need to ask my GP for a referral to Child First Speech and Language Therapy?
No. If you have any queries or concerns about your child’s speech, language or communication development, you can refer your child to us directly without the need for referrals or waiting lists. Simply call or email for a free initial consultation to talk through your concerns and find out whether or not your child may need support.
Can my child see a Speech and Language Therapist on the NHS instead?
Yes, you can contact your local NHS Speech and Language Therapy service, or speak to your GP, Health Visitor or school staff about a referral. NHS Speech and Language Therapy is free of charge.
My child has been referred to our local NHS Speech and Language Therapy service, but the waiting list is very long. Can we see an independent SLT while we are waiting, without losing our place?
Yes, we can typically arrange an assessment within a week of your enquiry and start therapy straight away if required. This will not affect your access to NHS services - you can take your NHS appointment when it comes, and then either a) continue with only NHS therapy, b) continue with both and we can work closely with the NHS therapist to support the child’s best interests, or c) continue with only Child First therapy.
What’s the difference between Independent Speech and Language Therapy and the NHS provision?
While NHS services are free, Independent Speech and Language Therapists charge fees for their time. Independent SLTs are usually able to see your child sooner, more frequently, and at a convenient time that suits your schedule.
Is the cost of Speech and Language Therapy covered by my health insurance?
If you have private health insurance, the cost of therapy may be covered. It is advised that you check the terms of your policy before making an appointment. Parents are responsible for making direct payments for the speech and language therapy service, and may subsequently claim from the insurance company.
How long does speech and language therapy normally take?
It is never easy to predict the treatment length as every child is individual and many factors can influence his/her response to Speech and Language Therapy. Depending on the nature of the difficulty and support available outside of the sessions, speech therapy could last from just a few weeks to a number of months. The Speech and Language Therapist will continually monitor and review your child's progress ensuring that targets are achieved.
Can my child outgrow his / her speech and language difficulties?
Language continues to develop throughout childhood, but if a child has speech or language difficulties, he or she may not ‘grow out of it’ naturally. Without speech & language therapy, his speech or language could fall further behind his peers - as he grows older it becomes harder for the child to “catch up”. Individualised speech and language therapy can dramatically improve a child’s development and may prevent additional concerns such as behaviour issues or mental health difficulties.
Where will the therapy happen?
At your home, nursery or school. We can discuss which setting may be the most suitable for your child during our free initial consultation.
Do you work with other professionals?
We believe that collaboration is essential for a child to reach his or her full potential, and work closely as a team with all of the key people in the child’s life, including other health and education professionals. With your permission, this can be done in many ways: liaising on the phone, sharing reports, attending sessions, and attending appropriate meetings.
What can I do to help my child’s speech and language develop at home?
Your Speech and Language Therapist will provide you with specific advice, strategies or activities to help you support your child’s development. It is very important that as a parent you are involved in your child’s treatment - you may wish to observe sessions, participate in parent trainings, receive email feedback after school-based sessions, and attend progress meetings.
Should Speech and Language Therapists have professional registration?
All Speech and Language Therapists must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. An Independent Speech and Language Therapist should be able to show you their HCPC Certificate and should also be registered with the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP). You can check membership by looking on the HCPC website and the ASLTIP website.
How do I know you are a fully qualified Speech and Language Therapist?
All therapists at ChildFirst are registered members of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice and the Health and Care Professions Council.