Job Title: ELSEC Programme Lead (Early Language Support for Every Child)
Reporting to: Head of Delivery
Location: Combination of home and locally based work in Hartlepool
Contract: Fixed term contract until Aug 2027; 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE)
Role Overview
We are working with partners from Hartlepool Council, Integrated Commissioning Board and local NHS Trust to deliver the Early Language Support for Every Child (ELSEC) pilot project. ELSEC is a two year pathfinder programme co‑led by the DfE and NHS England, testing reforms in SEND and Alternative Provision. The programme funds innovative workforce models to identify and support children with speech and language challenges at an early stage. Hartlepool is one of nine local authorities taking part. The Programme Lead, together with a Senior Speech and Language Therapist and seven speech and language support workers, will create the model of early intervention support.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure effective operational management of the staff team and successful delivery of the national ELSEC programme.
- Collaborate effectively across a large number of local stakeholders, providing input, advice and leadership on how we support children with speech and language challenges.
- Contribute to raising our profile as a leading children’s charity supporting children with speech and language challenges, and raising awareness of the ELSEC project locally.
- Lead the operational delivery of the ELSEC programme locally.
- Manage and support a multidisciplinary team, including recruitment and performance management.
- Develop and oversee project plans, budgets, KPIs and reporting.
- Build strong relationships with partners, including the Local Authority and NHS.
- Provide strategic leadership and expert advice on speech and language support.
- Ensure high‑quality evaluation, reporting and continuous improvement.
What we are looking for
- Qualified Speech and Language Therapist registered with RCSLT and HCPC.
- Strong experience in multi‑agency working.
- Proven leadership experience managing staff and delivering services.
- Experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation.
- In‑depth knowledge of speech, language and communication needs (0–7 years).
Benefits
- Competitive salary.
- 28 days holiday (pro‑rata for part‑time).
- Group pension scheme.
- Life assurance.
- Opportunity to work in an organisation where every job matters.
Application deadline: 5pm on Monday, 4th May 2026.
Contact: jobs@speechandlanguage.org.uk
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