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Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by difficulties with social communication, interacting with others and restrictive and repetitive behaviour and/or interests. This is sometimes called ‘the dyad of impairments’.

Although it may sometimes feel that the assessment focuses on difficulties, we will certainly also be looking for children’s strengths and recognise that people with neurodiversity absolutely have many strengths in many different areas.

The term ‘spectrum’ means that the characteristics of Autism will vary between individuals. Therefore, a ‘one size fits all’ approach to assessment does not work.

That is why, at St George’s NHS Foundation Trust, we take a holistic and individualised approach to assessing children and young people within our catchment area.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a diagnostic name given the characteristics described above. This wording or explanation does not fit everyone, and we would encourage families to decide between them how they wish to explain and understand any potential diagnosis of Autism.

We would also encourage parents/carers to allow their children to explore what term, if any, fits for them when they are appropriately aged to do so.

 

How to make a referral

  • Referrals must be made by a professional from health, social care or education.
  • Families referred must be registered to a Wandsworth GP.
  • Referrals are currently accepted for children and young people up to their 8th birthday.
  • To make a referral, we will need as much information as possible in order to ensure that the child is assessed by the most appropriate professional or team.
  • For further information on making referrals, including access to the referral forms: ASD

 

Steps in the Process

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If you are worried about your child, please note this is not an emergency or mental health crisis service.

If you notice your child’s health is deteriorating or your child is in immediate danger, please call 999 or go to A&E.

If you need urgent help for your child’s health call 111, contact your GP for further advice.

 

Unable to make your appointment?

If you’re unable to make your appointment, please contact Central Booking Service with as much notice as possible, so that we can offer the appointment to someone else.

Central Booking Service:

  • Telephone: 020 8725 0007
  • You can also change or cancel your appointment at St George’s Hospital online via our appointment amendment form.

Information for patients, parents and families (LINK)