There are a variety of supports available for children before undergoing an autism and ADHD assessment. These supports can help with managing symptoms, providing emotional assistance, and preparing the child for the diagnostic process.
Here’s an overview of key resources and services available in the UK:
1. Medical and Mental Health Support
- GP (General Practitioner): The first step. GPs can guide families through the referral process and offer support for co-occurring conditions like anxiety.
- CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services): Offers therapy and emotional support, even while waiting for formal assessments.
- Paediatricians: Often involved in early developmental assessments and referrals to specialists.
2. Specialist Assessments
- Educational Psychologists (EP): Assess learning needs and behaviour. Their reports can inform school support and EHCP applications.
- Private Assessment Providers: Offer quicker access to pre-assessment guidance or full diagnostic services (self-funded).
- Speech and Language Therapists (SLT): Help with communication, speech, and social interaction issues.
- Occupational Therapists (OT): Assist with sensory processing, motor skills, and daily tasks like handwriting, toileting, and dressing.
3. School Support
- SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator): Coordinates in-school support such as tailored learning plans, classroom adjustments, and referrals to external services.
- Learning Support Assistants (LSA)/Teaching Assistants (TA): Offer one-on-one or small group support to help children stay focused and manage challenges in class.
- In-School Therapeutic Support: Some schools offer access to counselling, OT, or SLT within the school environment.
4. Support Groups and Peer Networks
- National Autistic Society (NAS): Offers guidance, support groups, and local services for parents and carers.
- ADHD Foundation: Provides webinars, family support, and child-friendly ADHD resources.
- Local Parent/Carer Support Groups: Run by charities or community orgs, these offer advice, peer support, and emotional encouragement.
5. Online Resources and Self-Help Tools
- Online Screening Tools: Use tools from NAS or ADHD UK to explore whether your child may benefit from a formal assessment.
- Online Communities: Facebook groups, Reddit, and parent forums are great places to find advice and connect with others.
6. Therapeutic Support
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps children manage anxiety, anger, or behaviour related to ADHD or autism.
- Occupational Therapy: Improves sensory regulation, motor planning, and independence in everyday tasks.
- Speech and Language Therapy: Supports communication, language understanding, and social skills.
7. Family Support
- Parent Training and Workshops: Offered by NAS, ADHD Foundation, and local services to teach behavioural strategies and communication techniques.
- Parent Helplines: Helplines from NAS, Contact, and ADHD UK offer one-on-one advice and support.
- Family Therapy or Counselling: Helps families manage stress and improve communication at home.
8. Practical Strategies for Managing Symptoms
- Routine and Structure: Use visual schedules, timers, and clear routines to help children feel secure and focused.
- Behavioural Support: Reward systems, positive reinforcement, and consistent boundaries help manage emotional outbursts or impulsivity.
9. Advocacy and Legal Support
- SEND Advocacy Services: Help parents navigate school systems and secure the right support while waiting for a diagnosis.
- IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice): Provides free legal advice and templates to support education-related challenges.
Conclusion
In the UK, a wide range of support services are available to children awaiting an autism or ADHD assessment. Engaging with these resources early can help children manage symptoms, reduce anxiety, and access educational and emotional support while waiting for a formal diagnosis. You’re not alone—support is available at every stage of the journey.