NHS trusts are unable to meet the current demand for services dedicated to children and young people who are waiting for autism assessments, health leaders have warned. In a new report from NHS Providers , which included 134 responses from 95 trusts, 86% said that the time it takes to access an initial assessment has increased, with one trust admitting that it has risen from 14 months pre-pandemic to now 38 months. Unfortunately, this can bring up a lot of concerns for parents.
“It can be an anxious time for the child if they are not getting the right support, and have a negative impact at school or home. There can also be little support for the children or parents,” said parent mentor Jane Miller, who helps parents understand and hear their children, especially those with autism and ADHD . Miller also carries out autism and ADHD assessments for children and adults at the Autism ADHD Test .
“I speak to parents with children who are self-harming or threatening to commit suicide due to not being able to cope with everyday life. The worries for these parents can be that their child is getting worse, not getting the support they need, and are missing out socially and with education.” So how can parents support their children during this difficult time? Health experts share everything you need to know.
Be confident, consistent and caring Once the idea of a possible autism diagnosis has been discussed and the paperwork sent, it can be a long wait for the assessment process..
