Making a Referral 

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

Referral Procedures and Policies 

Having used the checklists and considered the appropriateness of a referral to SLT, a referral can then be made using the standard referral form. (Incomplete referral forms will be returned to the referrer)

If the referral is accepted, the child’s name will be placed on a waiting list for initial assessment.

When the child’s name is at the top of the waiting list, an appointment for an initial assessment will be sent to the child’s home with a copy to you, the referrer. 21 days postal notice will be given for appointments.

If appointments are not kept and no contact is made to explain the missed appointment then the child will be discharged.

Any re-referrals for children who have been discharged due to failure to attend an appointment, will be required in writing from the parent.

Following assessment a decision will be made about appropriate intervention or discharge if no intervention is required.

All information regarding discharge policies are communicated in all standardised correspondence with parents.