At Skybound Therapies, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality, individualised support to children and adults with complex needs. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Libby, our newest Speech and Language Therapist, who is already making a big impact!
Based in Cardiff, Libby works across Wales and England, supporting individuals with speech, language, communication, and feeding needs. In this Q & A, she shares her journey into Speech and Language Therapy (SLT), her transition from university to working life, and what makes Skybound special to her.
How long have you been with Skybound?
I started here in the first week of September, so almost six months.
What did you do before and what made you choose Skybound?
I have always aspired to work in healthcare and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Upon discovering Speech and Language Therapy, I realised it aligned perfectly with my career goals.
Before joining Skybound, I completed a BSc in Speech and Language Therapy in Cardiff, gaining hands-on experience through numerous placement hours in various settings with diverse client groups. These included working with paediatric clients with complex needs in schools, homes, and clinics, as well as adults with learning disabilities in clinics, homes, and supported living environments, and clients with progressive conditions.
I loved the diversity of my training, which provided me with valuable insights into the clinical areas of Speech and Language Therapy and helped clarify my career specialism following graduation. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at university, as it provided me with the opportunity to forge lasting friendships, develop my confidence, and discover my passion for supporting adults with learning disabilities and children with complex needs in speech, language, communication, and eating, drinking, and swallowing.
Alongside my studies, I attended numerous events and talks by guest speakers. It was great to widen my knowledge outside of lectures and hear like-minded people discuss their work and careers.
When I found the job advertisement for a Speech and Language Therapist at Skybound Therapies, the first thing I did was have a look at the company’s values to see if it was the type of place I would like to work. Not only did the values align with my own, I could also see how much thought had been put into them. They don’t just include the therapist but the client, the family and other members of the interdisciplinary team. That approach really stood out to me.
In Skybound, I found a company that really focuses on the client as an individual and takes the time to get to know them and build a rapport. I believe this is what creates meaningful therapeutic relationships as we are able to work together to create goals and programmes.
What was your first day at Skybound like?
On my first day, I met with Meg, who explained how my first couple of weeks would go. She was really friendly and answered all of my questions, which helped ease my first day nerves very quickly.
How did you find the transition from university to full-time work?
Moving from university to working full time was a big adjustment! I found the first month very tiring. But it was nice to speak to my friends who were going through similar things in their new jobs.
What kind of support did you receive in your first few months?
Skybound introduced me gradually by giving me a small initial caseload, which has since grown. This was such a nice way to ease into a new job as it gave me time to get used to everything and build on my experience and confidence. I have also had the opportunity to participate in numerous training sessions, including the Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) course, which provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the roles of my colleagues. I have also completed a paediatric first aid course, which not only enhanced my knowledge but also empowered me with the confidence to respond effectively in emergency situations.
What has been the highlight of your journey at Skybound so far?
One of the biggest highlights has been participating in the staff Well-being Weekend. It was a great chance to connect with my colleagues on a personal level. Cultivating these trusting relationships is essential as it fosters successful interdisciplinary team collaborations. Since Skybound operates across a large area, it was lovely to meet other team members in person for the first time. The weekend focused on resilience, compassion, and psychological flexibility, and we even faced some fears—holding snakes, spiders, and eating bugs!
I was very proud of everyone. Even though many were scared they were resilient and did it anyway.
How does Skybound support the well-being of its employees?
The Well-being Weekend is just one example! I’ve also had regular supervision meetings with my line manager where we discuss not just work but also any personal concerns and how I’m settling in. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I hadn’t had something like this before, but I was pleasantly surprised by the open and supportive environment.
Can you explain what an ‘Intensive’ at Skybound is?
An Intensive is a 5 day, focused therapy programme at the Skybound Therapy Centre. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to build strong therapeutic relationships and see significant progress in a short period.
What do you enjoy most about working on Intensives?
I love working at the centre as it is such a fun, friendly and educational environment. Between sessions, we take breaks by going out around the farm on walks and feeding animals – it’s a fantastic setting for both clients and therapists.
Can you share a memorable experience from an Intensive?
I will always remember my first intensive, which involved toilet training a non-verbal child. From an SLT perspective, I concentrated on the communication aspects while also engaging in data collection. It was incredibly rewarding to observe significant progress over just a few days.
Looking for a Speech and Language Therapist?
Find out more about our services here. Or hear directly from Carys and Libby by checking out our video reel below!
Join the Skybound Team!
Skybound is always looking for passionate professionals to join our interdisciplinary team. We have exciting opportunities in Behaviour Support and Occupational Therapy.
If you’re looking for a fulfilling career in a supportive environment, check out our Vacancies Page to learn more!
