Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD in Children

The Specialist Autism Assessment Service accepts referrals for children and young people (Age 2 years 4 months up to the age of 17 years 6 months)

Referrals can be made by: 

• School SENCOs
• Social workers
• Family self-referral

Diagnosis in pre-school children

Consider a diagnosis of ASD in a pre-school chid if they have issues with language delay/ regression, a reduced/ absent response to others (e.g reduced social smiling or rejection or cuddles), reduced eye contact/ pointing and other gestures, reduced or absent imagination/ variety of pretend play, unusual or restricted interests and / or rigid and repetitive behaviours

Diagnosis in school children

Referrals to the Specialist Autism Diagnostic Assessment Service in Sirona (NHS) require supporting information from the family and educational setting and are best made by people that know a child well. In most cases this is not the GP. All referrals are now to be made by the child’s school or SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator); self-referral is also possible.

It is important that families have realistic expectations of what the service offers:

• Most community services are provided according to need and not diagnosis. A child does not need a diagnosis to have additional funding in education or to apply for an Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP)
• The waiting lists for an assessment are very long even for children with high levels of need. We do not need to wait for the assessment before putting into place interventions and strategies to support a child.
• Some parents may choose to seek a private assessment. We advocate that educational settings support needs identified in private assessments appropriately
• The service does not provide support for a child’s needs whilst they are waiting for assessment or once they have a diagnosis.

Find information about Right-to-choose (RTC) referrals

ASD in Adults

Bristol Autism Spectrum Service (BASS) provides a service to adults with autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) and professionals and carers who support them.

Please see our appointments page to request a GP appointment, we will be able to conduct an assessment and refer if we feel it is appropriate. You can be referred for Diagnostic Assessment or Post-diagnosis Support. 

Find information about Right-to-choose (RTC) referrals