Children’s and young people’s neurodevelopmental assessments

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.

Learn what to expect from your assessment.

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.

Find out about your initial assessment and development history.

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.

Learn about school observation.

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.

Learn more by watching our information videos:

• quantified behavioural (Qb) test diagnostic assessment on YouTube
• autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS) on YouTube
• diagnostic interview for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (DIVA) on YouTube
• cognitive assessment on YouTube

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.

Find out what happens after your assessment process on YouTube.

Plan your journey

If you use public transport, the Traveline journey planner provides information about what services and times are available.

Page last reviewed: July 02, 2025
Next review due: July 02, 2026