Speech and language therapists in palliative care: what do we have to offer?

Speech and language therapists (SLTs) are specialists in the management of communication and swallowing disorders (dysphagia); however, few are members of acute and community specialist palliative care teams in the UK. Although numbers of SLTs working in palliative care are increasing, there is a need for education and research to support service development and promote understanding of their role. This profile piece outlines what SLTs have to offer patients with palliative care needs and describes how their role in palliative care is increasing in the UK.