Fiona. Speech & Language Therapist

Fiona is a twenty-four-year-old NHS Speech and Language Therapist from London. She has been in the industry for two years.

How did you get into your field and what inspired you?

‘I always wanted to do something quite person-centred and I have a family member who has speech and language impairments so I have first hand experience of the difficulties this can cause for families. I wanted to do something to help others with similar difficulties.’

What did you study at University and did this help you get into your field?

‘I have an undergraduate degree in English and Philosophy and a masters in Speech and Language Sciences which definitely helped to secure my role.’

Do you recommend any particular studies, courses or degrees for your field?

‘RCSLT/ HCPC recognised BSc or MSc in Speech and language sciences.’

What does an average day look like in your role?

‘Planning, implementing and evaluating assessments and intervention plans for people with speech, language, communication or swallowing disorders. Working with teachers, nurses and parents to train them around communication strategies.’

What is the best part of your role?

‘Working with lots of different people and helping to improve someone’s quality of life.’

What is the worst part of your role?

‘It can be emotionally challenging and it can be difficult to switch off from the day considering the nature of the difficulties the clients have. Also dealing with difficult questions and emotional families who are grieving after a diagnosis or after someone has had a life changing injury can be a real challenge.’

How important is work/life balance to you and how much spare time do you have?

‘Work/life balance is really important. My role allows for planning and report writing throughout the week so I do have a good work-life balance with little over time or work on weekends.’

Do you have any hobbies?

‘Going to the theatre, swimming and pilates.’

Do you have any advice for people looking to start a career in the same field?

‘Get experience before starting so that you are sure the role is for you. The training is very full on but the role at the end is worth it.’

Have you ever experienced any uncertainties about your career and if so, what did you do to overcome them?

‘I didn’t get into the masters course I wanted to at first so I took a year out, got lots of experience and travelled. This gave me a break after my undergraduate degree and the extra experience made me more certain this was the role for me and made me a better therapist in the long run.’

Who is your biggest female inspiration and why?

‘My auntie, she looks after her whole family whilst caring for her daughter with special needs. She never complains and just smashes it every single day!’