Neurodevelopmental Assessment for children with Autism (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Children in Powys can now be assessed for ASD and ADHD through the Powys Neurodevelopmental Service which is led by the Health Board.

An assessment will aim to give a diagnosis of either ASD or ADHD, however it is important to be aware that your child should not be denied a service due to lack of a diagnosis.  Social services, health and education are all in agreement that services are needs based and not dependent on a diagnosis.

The Neurodevelopmental assessment process includes input from a range of professionals including:

• education,
• social services,
• learning disability nurses,
• speech and language therapists,
• occupational therapists,
• paediatricians,
• child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS).

How do I get an assessment?

A referral will be required from a professional or service who knows your child well.  Referrals are not accepted directly from the child, young person or their parent.  It may be useful to discuss a request for referral with the school, your health visitor or your GP. 

The referrer needs to describe behaviours and describe how these have been addressed and how effective the input has been.  The referrals are then looked at by the neurodevelopmental team at a referral meeting. 

Referrals will be declined if sent without a referral form and the required supporting evidence. If this is the case the referral may be resent once the form is complete and supporting evidence attached.

Children under 5yrs may be directed to the paediatrician prior to commencing a full assessment.  If this is the case you will be informed.

Sometimes referrals are declined if a child has just commenced nursery or school, in these cases it may be advised that the referral is resent once the child has settled into school and education have had the opportunity to assess their needs.

What does the assessment look like?

 Once your child is accepted onto the assessment process you will receive an acceptance letter.  You may be sent questionnaires for yourself and your child's teacher to answer.  You will be asked to hand the teacher questionnaire to the school. 

Your child will then need a series or assessments to include some of the following as examples:-

• physical examination by a paediatrician or a CAMHS consultant
• observing your child at school or at home
• individual assessment with your child
• an interview with parents

The length of time required for the process is dependent on the number of assessments required. 

After the assessment, you will get a written report telling you what they have found out and what support you need. This will also be given to other professionals who work with your child, including their school. There'll also be a feedback meeting where you and the professionals talk about the findings of the assessment. You will be offered a further opportunity to discuss the report should you wish.  In some instances your child may require ongoing follow up

Contacts

• Email: Powys.ND.Service@wales.nhs.uk
• Address: Neurodevelopmental Service, Powys Teaching Health Board, The Annexe, Brecon War Memorial Hospital, Brecon, LD3 7NS