NHS Lanarkshire Children and Young People’s Speech and Language Therapy Service operate an open referral system therefore anyone can make a referral. If a professional is making a referral then parental/carer permission must be obtained beforehand.
Referrals can be made by filling in the standardised referral form (see enclosed). The following information will help you to decide if a referral to speech and language therapy is appropriate. This information gives guidance on normal development with regard to speech, language, communication and eating and drinking skills. This will help you to make a decision about whether the child is experiencing a difficulty which is not within the normal range of development and the effect that is having on everyday life.
When making a referral, please consider the following:
- Are there any other developmental/learning concerns with this child? If so, have you considered referral to another agency e.g. Educational Psychologist
- Has the child’s hearing been checked? If not then please consider referral
- Are you sure about whether a referral at this time is appropriate? It may be that there are circumstances which would make it difficult for the family to engage in speech and language therapy intervention, and if so, then please contact the advice line