Data on the number of many speech and language therapists employed by each primary care trust PCT and the ratio of speech and language therapists to the population has been placed in the Library.
In some larger areas, which cover a number of PCTs, one PCT will take on the responsibility of providing speech and language therapists for the others. This normally happens where the local authority boundary is coterminous with the boundaries of the PCTs involved.
It is for primary care trusts in partnership with strategic health authorities, local authorities and other local stakeholders to determine how best to use their funds to meet national and local priorities for improving health, tackling health inequalities and modernising services. This process provides the means for addressing needs within the local community including the provision of speech and language therapy.
The number of qualified speech and language therapists employed in the national health service has increased by 1,329 (24 per cent.) since 2000 to 6,759 in 2005. The number of speech and language therapy undergraduate commissions has increased by 149 (27 per cent.) since 2000 to 707 in 2005.
It is for primary care trusts in partnership with strategic health authorities, local authorities and other local stakeholders to determine how best to use their funds to meet national and local priorities for improving health, tackling health inequalities and modernising services. This process provides the means for addressing local needs within the health community including the provision of speech and language therapy.