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Eating and drinking
- Feeding and eating
- Speech, language and communication
Eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties
Eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, can occur in infants, children, young people and adults. It often occurs with other health conditions, such as being born prematurely, having a learning disability, syndrome/genetic conditions, or a brain injury.
If not treated appropriately, dysphagia can lead to other health complications which can be serious in nature and affect respiratory health.
Speech and language therapists play a key role in the identification and management of eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties. They do not work with children with eating disorders.
If you have any concerns about your child or young person's eating, drinking and swallowing skills, please discuss with a healthcare professional or an educational professional. They can make a referral to our service for an assessment. The dysphagia referral form should be completed by the healthcare professional or education staff.
Last reviewed: 24 November, 2025
