Referrals for ADHD and Autism
The Needs Led Approach
If your child is presenting with significant difficulties accessing learning in the school environment and if either you or the school feel this may be due to traits of autism and/or ADHD, we can support with the assessment pathway, if this is what you wish.
As you may be aware, in recent years there has been a dramatic increase nationally in referrals for ADHD and Autism. This has led to extremely long NHS waiting times of up to 2-3 years before being offered an assessment. This national trend is reflected in Wiltshire.
From January 2025, HCRG have introduced the Needs Led Approach for schools in Wiltshire. GPs will not make direct referrals to HCRG for autism/ADHD assessment.
The Needs Led Approach is overseen by the school in collaboration with the parent/carer and young person. It is a 3-part cycle of support at the end of which a referral for a diagnostic assessment can be made. We understand that parents/carers can be concerned about the time this may take, however, our SEN support is not diagnosis led. From the very start of the process, the SEND team will discuss any additional support and reasonable adjustments the school can make to support your child.
For further information on the Needs Led Approach click here
For further information on the ASC/ADHD assessment pathway click here
If you are concerned your child may have ADHD or autism, we recommend you have an initial discussion with your child’s Head of Year in the first instance as they may be able to offer initial pastoral support.
What if I want my child to be assessed more quickly?
Right to Choose: In England, patients have a legal Right to Choose who provides their healthcare, including who carries out an autism or ADHD assessment. GPs should offer you the option to choose a service to carry out the assessment. This allows patients to choose an approved private clinician to carry out ADHD/autism assessments. Waiting times may be shorter and this is a paid service. You need to be referred by your GP to access this service.
NHS information on the Right to Choose
NHS information on getting an autism diagnosis
NHS information on getting an ADHD diagnosis
National Autistic Society advice and guidance
ADHD Foundation support services