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Getting support for a child with autism or ADHD can feel overwhelming. Waiting lists, referrals, school meetings, assessments — it can feel like a maze.
This guide is here to help parents understand what these conditions are, where to start, and who to contact for support.
What Is Autism?
Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder - ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction and how a person experiences the world.
Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects each child differently.
Learn more:
What Is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects focus, impulse control and activity levels. It can look different in boys and girls.
Learn more:
Where To Get Help – UK
- Speak to your GP for referral to paediatrics
- Request SENCO support through your child’s school
- Ask for an EHCP needs assessment
- Contact your local council SEND team
- National Autistic Society
International Support
🇺🇸 United States
🇮🇳 India
🇸🇬 Singapore
🇩🇪 Germany
🇦🇪 UAE / Arab Region
Who To Contact First
- Your child’s GP or primary doctor
- School SENCO
- Health visitor (for younger children)
- Social worker (if involved)
- Educational psychologist services
Email Template You Can Copy & Paste
Subject: Request for Assessment / Support for My Child
Dear [Name],
I am writing to request support and guidance regarding my child. I have ongoing concerns about their development, communication and/or ability to focus.
I would like to request a formal assessment for autism and/or ADHD, and information about the next steps in the referral process.
Please can you advise on how we can proceed and what support may be available while awaiting assessment.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Support For Parents
Waiting lists can be long. The process can feel isolating. You are not alone.
Parent support groups, online communities and local SEND forums can make a huge difference during this time.
NHS Right to Choose – ADHD & Autism Assessments (England)
Under the NHS Constitution in England, patients have the legal right to choose their healthcare provider for certain services, including ADHD and autism assessments.
This means your GP may refer you to an NHS-funded provider outside your local area if they hold an NHS contract.
Important: Right to Choose applies to England only. It does not apply in the same way in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
How Right to Choose Works
- Book a GP appointment.
- State clearly that you are requesting a referral under “NHS Right to Choose.”
- Name the provider you would like to be referred to.
- Your GP checks eligibility and submits referral.
- The provider contacts you directly regarding assessment.
You are allowed to ask about alternative providers if waiting times are long locally.
Independent Providers That May Accept NHS Right to Choose Referrals
-
ADHD 360
Offers ADHD assessments for children and adults. Provides NHS Right to Choose referrals in England.
Visit ADHD 360 -
Psychiatry UK
Provides ADHD assessments under NHS Right to Choose and private routes. Often remote video-based assessments.
Visit Psychiatry UK -
Clinical Partners
Offers autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. Some services funded via NHS contracts.
Visit Clinical Partners -
Psicon
Provides ADHD and autism assessments in some regions via NHS contracts and private pathways.
Visit Psicon -
Harrow Health CIC
Offers ADHD services under NHS contracts in certain commissioning areas.
Visit Harrow Health CIC -
The Owl Centre
Provides autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults. Availability depends on local commissioning.
Visit The Owl Centre
Always confirm directly:
- They are currently accepting NHS Right to Choose referrals.
- Your local ICB (Integrated Care Board) approves funding.
- Age eligibility requirements.
- Whether medication titration is included.
Waiting Time Comparison (Approximate & Varies)
| Route | Funded By | Typical Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Local NHS Pathway | NHS | Often 12–24+ months |
| Right to Choose Provider | NHS | Several months (varies by provider & demand) |
| Private Assessment | Self-funded | 2–8 weeks (varies) |
Waiting times change frequently. Always confirm with the provider before requesting referral.
Medication & Shared Care – Important
Some providers diagnose but do not automatically manage ongoing medication.
Ask:
- Do you provide medication titration?
- Will my GP accept shared-care prescribing after diagnosis?
- Is follow-up included?
This is important before choosing a provider.
What To Say To Your GP (Copy & Paste)
Subject: Request for NHS Right to Choose Referral
Dear Doctor,
I would like to request a referral under my NHS Right to Choose for an ADHD/autism assessment.
After researching available providers, I would prefer to be referred to [Provider Name].
Please confirm whether this provider is eligible under our local commissioning arrangements and advise on the next steps.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Before Choosing A Provider
- Check online reviews.
- Confirm qualifications of clinicians.
- Ask about full assessment process.
- Ensure reports are recognised for EHCP applications.
- Ask about post-diagnosis support.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical or legal advice. Always confirm directly with providers and your GP.
Related Reading
This article is informational and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
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