Neurodevelopment pathway

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 (opens in new window).

Initial 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 (opens in new window).

Second meeting with parents and caregivers

This meeting is for parents and caregivers to complete a detailed developmental history. We will ask about your child’s early years, toddlerhood, and primary school experiences, as well as their current behaviours.

If you have any past reports or your child’s baby record book, it may be helpful to bring copies to the appointment.

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 (opens in new window).

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:

• cognitive assessment (opens in new window)
• diagnostic test (opens in new window)
• autism diagnostic observation schedule (opens in new window)
• diagnostic interview for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (DIVA) (opens in new window)
• sensory assessment (opens in new window)
• speech language therapy assessment (opens in new window)

Multi-disciplinary team discussion

Once the assessment process is complete, all the information is carefully reviewed by the multi-disciplinary team. This team may include a clinical psychologist, an assistant psychologist, a nurse, a specialist practitioner, or a psychiatrist. 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 (opens in new window).

After diagnosis for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Once the neurodevelopmental assessment is complete, a referral will be made to the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) post-diagnosis team. Your child, along with a parent or carer, will be invited to an initial appointment to discuss the diagnosis and develop a holistic treatment plan. This plan will consider psychological, behavioural, and educational needs.

We will provide education and information on the causes and impact of ADHD, along with resources and strategies to help manage symptoms. Behavioural strategies will be offered through the 1-2-3 magic parenting programme. With consent, the team will also work with your child’s school or college to offer classroom strategies if needed.

Medication may be considered if ADHD symptoms cause significant ongoing difficulties after strategies and environmental adjustments have been implemented.

During the first appointment, a nurse may take your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure as a baseline measurement. If medication is started, your child will have follow-up reviews at the ADHD clinic every 3 to 6 months.

Find out what happens post attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis (opens in new window).

Plan your journey

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

Page last reviewed: March 12, 2025
Next review due: March 12, 2026