Speech & Language Therapy & OT

The main NHS speech and language therapy service for children in Kent (excluding Ashford and Thanet areas — see East Kent Hospitals below). Provides assessment and treatment for speech, language, communication needs, and eating/drinking/swallowing difficulties. Works with schools and early years settings. Refer via their online form or through health professionals.

NHS speech and language therapy for children with a Canterbury, Faversham or Thanet GP. Provides therapy in community settings including schools. The service works with the Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCo) in schools — the link therapist attends school and works with school staff to support the child.

The main NHS occupational therapy service for children in Kent. OTs support children and young people who are struggling to participate in activities at home, school and in the community. This includes fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care, and handwriting. Refer via their online form.

NHS occupational therapy for children in East Kent (Canterbury, Faversham, Thanet). Provides assessment and therapy in community settings including The Beacon in Folkestone. Supports fine motor skills, sensory processing, coordination, and activities of daily living.

Free drop-in sessions where parents can speak to a Speech and Language Therapist, Family Hub worker or other staff without a referral. For pre-school aged children where there may be a concern about speech, language or communication. No appointment needed — just turn up.