Autism assessment and diagnosis

Getting an assessment

A child or young person needs to be assessed to get a diagnosis of autism. Assessments are done by autism specialists.

Before diagnosis - This information from the National Autistic Society (NAS) answers questions you may have, including who to speak to about getting an assessment.

Is a diagnosis needed?

Getting support doesn’t always require a diagnosis. It depends on the type of support that is needed. In UK schools, for example, a child or young person doesn’t need a diagnosis to get assessed for extra help. They can also get an education health and care (EHC) plan without it.

If you are unsure about seeking an assessment, this NAS guidance may help - Deciding whether to seek an autism assessment

How is my child assessed for autism?

NAS has a section on Assessment and diagnosis. There is also this NHS information.

In addition to NHS assessments, there is the option to seek a private or independent assessment. Read more in How to request an autism assessment.

After diagnosis

NAS has a section on After diagnosis.

For a briefer outline of the overall process, see this information from Ambitious About Autism - How assessment and diagnosis works.

How it works in Manchester

In Manchester, the NHS autism assessment service is called the Social Communication Pathway (SCP). It is part of Manchester’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Learn about the Social Communication Pathway (SCP).

The Greater Manchester Autism Consortium is a source of information about autism and related issues. This includes a range of seminars and groups - see their Events page.