Neurodevelopmental assessments

The children’s and young people’s autism and ADHD assessment service provides specialist assessments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) for children and young people across Rotherham, Doncaster, and North Lincolnshire.

Our approach is neuro-affirming, focusing on understanding individual strengths and needs, and offering tailored recommendations and signposting to additional support. The assessment process involves gathering information from families, schools, and professionals, and may include observations, questionnaires, and structured tools.

Watch our short video series to find out what happens during the assessment.

Rotherham assessment journey

North Lincolnshire assessment journey

Initial referral

When we receive a referral, we consider whether the information suggests that the individual may have a neurodevelopmental difference.

We take various factors into account, including information from parents, carers, and education staff. If more details are needed, we will seek them out. If an assessment is required, the individual will be placed on a waiting list. In some cases, other explanations may better account for a person’s needs. When this happens, our team will offer advice and suggestions for next steps.

We understand that children and families may have to wait a long time for an assessment. During this time, we will try to provide recommendations for other services, websites, or strategies that can support you and your child’s school while you wait.

Initial assessment meeting

An initial meeting will be held with you and your child to discuss any concerns and gather information about family background, medical history, and key contacts for further information. We will also talk about any risky or challenging behaviours your child may be displaying.

During this meeting, we may explore whether other agencies or pathways within the service could offer support. At the end of the discussion, we will work with you to agree on a care plan outlining any future assessments that may be needed.

Parents and caregivers

During the assessment process, a detailed developmental history will be completed. We will ask about the child’s early years, toddlerhood, and primary school experiences, as well as their current behaviours.

Schools and professionals

We will communicate with your child’s school and any other professionals involved in their care.

We may also observe your child in an educational setting, but this will not be necessary for every child.

Assessments and questionnaires

We will complete an autism diagnostic observation schedule, a play-based observation assessment with your child.

Additionally, we may use standardised questionnaires and psychometric assessments, which could include a cognitive assessment and tests to explore different aspects of attention.

Multi-disciplinary team discussion

Once the assessment process is complete, all the information is carefully reviewed by the multi-disciplinary team. They will develop an understanding of your child’s strengths and difficulties, which may or may not lead to a diagnosis.

Feedback

Your family will be invited to a feedback appointment to discuss the outcome of the assessment and the next steps. In some cases, ongoing support from the service may be needed, such as when mental health concerns are identified or medication is required. If this is the case, your child will be referred to the most appropriate care pathway.

A full assessment report will be provided, ensuring that families and professionals have a record of the information used to make decisions.

Page last reviewed: December 05, 2025
Next review due: December 05, 2026