Autism Assessment Service: Supporting people to fulfil their potential

Autism Assessment Service: Supporting people to fulfil their potential

Autism, ADHD and neurodiversity are words which are frequently heard and discussed by mainstream media and the public. The stigma surrounding these conditions has also been significantly batted to the side-lines in recent months. However, although our understanding surrounding neurodiversity has increased, services are struggling to deal with demand when it comes to assessment, leading to frustration. Consequently, in some areas, it is taking longer for children and young people to receive the support they need to reach their full potential in life.

The Scottish Government has reported there have been large increases in referrals for autism and ADHD assessment by local services. According to the National Autistic Society, there has been a 50% increase in the number of people waiting for autism assessment in Scotland in just one year. Waiting lists also remain long throughout the UK. Nearly half of children in Scotland referred for an autism assessment have been waiting more than a year to be seen.

One of our great breakthroughs last year at The Muir Practice was the introduction of our Autism Assessment Service, to help reduce the number of those on NHS waiting lists, something we are incredibly proud of. However, before individuals and parents make an appointment for assessment, they have many questions they want to ask to make sure they are doing the correct thing. We frequently get asked what impact an autism assessment, and possibly a diagnosis may have on the life of the individual, their family and friends. We understand this can be a very delicate and stressful time and we want to make sure everyone is supported throughout the whole process, answering every question where possible.

We spoke with our Autism Practitioners who deliver our Autism Assessment Service here at The Muir Practice. They have shared some of the most commonly asked questions from parents surrounding signs and indicators of autism in children.

What are the signs of autism in early years?
“In early years some of the most common signs of autism begin around 12 months old, including few or no signs of babbling with their primary caregivers. Not pointing or sharing objects with others (e.g showing their caregivers interesting objects), are also early indicators of autism. Some young children may not use gestures such as shaking or nodding their head, or waving to greet others. They may also not be motivated to interact with others. Repetitive actions or movements, poor eye contact, not copying actions or sounds and not responding to their name can also be signs of autism in early years.”

What about those between the ages of 18 and 24 months, what are the signs of autism we should look out for? 
“In this age group a loss of words, skills, or social connection, may cause a flag to be raised but it is also important to note that not all children with autism show these signs. However approximately 20% to 50% of parents of children with autism report their child lost some of his or her skills during the second year, usually around 18 months of age."  

What about school aged children? Are there any specific indicators of autism to be aware of?
“When children go to school, there are more opportunities to recognise signs of autism. Some may have trouble making eye contact and find it difficult to understand what others are thinking and feeling. One common sign is when children repeat phrases and find it difficult to engage in conversation, so they may dominate the conversation and focus on a particular topic and can’t switch and move on to a new subject. Children who are autistic can also speak with a flat or monotonous tone, or sound advanced or more formal for their age. They may also show a limited range of facial expressions and emotions.

“Some children and young people may adhere strictly to rules and daily routines and become upset if routines must be changed. It’s also common for autistic children to have a keen interest in certain subjects or activities and they may find it difficult to make friends, preferring to be on their own. We often find when assessing children of school age who are later diagnosed with autism, that they may take things very literally, and find it hard to read nonverbal cues, such as a change in body language or tone of voice. Some may find it really hard to express how they are feeling emotionally, and struggle to share their feelings.”

What impact will a diagnosis have for my child and our family?
“If your child is diagnosed with autism you will all get the support and help required much earlier. Your child’s school or nursery will have a better understanding of your child’s needs, which means the support will be much more effective. For your child they will have a greater sense of self-worth and be able to understand themselves much better. This in turn will help increase their confidence. Knowing they are part of a much bigger group of other children, who also have autism, will give them the best opportunity to connect with others who have similar differences, and will allow them to thrive and be the best version of themselves.”

Our specialist team at The Muir Practice are available to chat face to face or over the phone if you would like to discuss our autism assessment service further and learn more about the support we can provide. 

We cannot provide mental health services for children/young people that need long-term intervention and/or support regarding suicidal ideation and acute mental health decline. For these concerns, please contact your GP, NHS 24 or speak with the Samaritans.