For many London parents, the first step when they’re concerned about their child’s speech and language development is to ask their GP, health visitor, or nursery for help. Often, this leads to a referral to the NHS Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) service.

But families across London are facing long delays. Some children wait over a year for assessment, which can feel frustrating especially when those early years are so critical for communication and learning.

This post looks at current NHS waiting times, the impact of delays, and how private SLT services like Baby Speak can provide timely, high-quality support for children and families.

NHS Waiting Times for Speech Therapy in London

Nationally, more than 75,000 children are waiting for speech and language therapy in England (Global Locums – SLT waiting lists).
In London, many families report waiting 12–18 months just for an initial assessment (The Guardian – NHS delays harming children’s health).
Nearly a quarter of NHS SLT posts in London are vacant, creating a workforce crisis and longer waits (RCSLT – Workforce planning in England).

These delays can leave parents in limbo, unsure whether their child will catch up on their own or continue to fall behind.

If you’re waiting for NHS input, our guide to Speech and Language Therapy for Children in London explains what private services can offer in the meantime.

Why Delays Matter: The Importance of Early Intervention

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) stresses that early support is crucial: children who receive timely intervention are more likely to develop strong communication skills, build friendships, and succeed at school.

Long waiting times mean:

Children may miss key developmental windows for speech and language.
Families experience stress and uncertainty.
Teachers and nurseries struggle without professional guidance.

Early years (under 5 years of age) are the foundation for lifelong communication. Waiting until reception or Year 1 to start therapy often means children need more support later on.

Learn more about early communication milestones and when to seek advice.

Private Alternatives: How Baby Speak Can Help

At Baby Speak, we offer private Speech and Language Therapy across London, including home visits, nursery/school support, and sessions at our Harley Street clinic in Marylebone, Central London.

Why families choose private SLT

No waiting lists – appointments available within days or weeks.
Flexible home visits – therapy takes place in your child’s familiar environment.
Specialist expertise – our therapists are HCPC-registered, RCSLT members, and have extensive NHS and private practice experience.
Parental coaching – strategies continue at home, not just in therapy sessions.
Nursery collaboration – we liaise with SENCOs and teachers to embed support into daily routines.

Services we provide

Individual assessments and therapy for speech, language, and communication needs.
Support for bilingual families.
Feeding and early communication guidance for babies and toddlers.
Medico-legal and EHCP reports and assessments.

For a full overview of our therapy offer, visit our Services page.

Where We Work

Our team provides private speech therapy for children across, but not limited to, Kensington, Chelsea, Hampstead, Maida Vale, St John’s Wood, Notting Hill, Marylebone, Islington, The City of London, and Hackney.

With NHS waiting lists stretching into months (or even years), private SLT can bridge the gap, ensuring children get the help they need when it matters most.

Contact Us

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech and language, you don’t have to wait. The earlier therapy starts, the better the outcomes.

Contact Baby Speak today to arrange a home, clinic, or nursery visit, or book an appointment online. We’ll provide clear advice, immediate support, and strategies that make a real difference in your child’s communication journey.

References

Global Locums. SLT Waiting Lists.
The Guardian. NHS delays harming children’s health.
RCSLT. Workforce planning in England.
RCSLT. Why speech, language and communication is important.

How long are NHS waiting times for Speech Therapy in London? Private Speech Therapy explained