Autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments
If you think it may be helpful for your child or young person to have an assessment for autism or ADHD start by speaking with your child’s teacher or the school's special educational needs coordinator (SENCO). If your child or young person isn't in school speak to another professional involved with them, or your child's health visitor or GP.
In Shropshire and Telford, different services offer autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments depending on the child or young person’s age. For more information about the assessment pathways for the different age groups visit the providers websites using the links below.
Autism 0-5 years - Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust
Provides assessments for young children displaying autistic traits.
- Information about the assessment pathway for young children (3 years)
- Information about the 4-5 years (school aged) assessment pathway
- Information video about what to expect at your child's multi-disciplinary assessment
ADHD 0-5 years
ADHD is not normally assessed until a child starts school.
Autism and ADHD (ND) (5 to 18 years)
BeeU (MPFT) provides ND assessments in their Neuro Developmental Service
Visit the BEEU website for a frequently asked questions document about the Neuro Developmental Service and a referral form for professionals.
Sheffield Children's Trust has produced a video outlining what to expect at an autism assessment for a school-aged child.
Autism (18 to 25 years)
The Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust provides autism assessments for both Shropshire and Telford residents. Telford and Shropshire Autism Hubs offer a first point of contact for autism assessments for adults of all ages. You can self-refer via the hubs, or a professional can refer you.
ADHD (18-25 years)
There are three organisations commissioned by Shropshire and Telford NHS to provide ADHD assessments for adults. Your GP will refer you to the Referral Management Centre, with whom you'll discuss your choices of provider.
Waiting times for Autism and ADHD assessment can be long. While you're on the waiting list, you can still get needs-led support for your child or young person. Visit the support-while-waiting pages on the Healthier Together website or the neurodiversity support pages.