ADHD and Autism

Diagnosis

GPs cannot diagnose ADHD or autism but can refer you to the appropriate services. The referral process is different for children and adults.

Diagnosis for Children

Mindworks Surrey advises that most referrals should go through schools. If your child attends a state school and is not in crisis:

- Speak to your child’s teacher or SENCO
- School staff can access Mindworks support without a GP referral

If your child is home educated or not in school:

- A professional (GP, social worker, or teacher) can request support
- Email: neurodevworkrequests@sabp.nhs.uk

If your child attends an independent school:

- Parents can request a consultation directly
- Email: neurodevworkrequests@sabp.nhs.uk

Diagnosis for Adults

NHS waiting times: The local NHS ADHD/ASD service in Epsom has long waiting times, assessments are face-to-face and may take several years.

Right to Choose (quicker option)

Some people choose a remote assessment using the NHS Right to Choose pathway which tends to have shorter waiting times.

Right to Choose providers are national services that hold an NHS contract and often conduct assessments and consultations remotely.

There are Right to Choose specialist services available for both ASD and ADHD referrals, with different options for adults and children.

ADHD UK provides a helpful guide: Right to Choose – ADHD UK

What to do if you think you may have ADHD

Contact the practice via Guildowns-Medical-Request-Form , or call us on 01483 409 309
We will send you a screening questionnaire to complete before referral

What to do if you think you may have Autism

Complete this questionnaire: AQ50_Form
Contact the practice via: Guildowns-Medical-Request-Form , or call us on 01483 409309
We will then assess and arrange a referral if appropriate

Medication After Diagnosis

If medication is recommended, it must be prescribed by your specialist
The GP practice cannot take over prescribing
This follows our shared care policy: Shared-Care-Prescribing

Support

Support is available for ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for both children and adults. You do not need a formal diagnosis to access much of this support.

Support for Children and Young People

Children can receive support before an ADHD or autism diagnosis. Mindworks Surrey (CAMHS) provides advice, resources, and support, please see:

The Children and Young People’s Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Service – Neurodevelopmental Needs.

Mental health concerns (non-urgent)

A health or social care professional can request support here:

Request support for a child or young person (referral)

Urgent or crisis support for children

- - Mindworks 24/7 Crisis Line: 0800 915 4644
  - Out-of-hours Parent & Carer Helpline: For parents and carers struggling with behaviour or emotional difficulties that may be related to ADHD or autism. Friendly, trained advisers offer practical advice and calming strategies. They are open: 5pm–11pm, 7 days a week, all year. Tel: 0300 222 5755

General mental health advice for children and young people

CAMHS self-help and emotional support resources: SABP Emotional Support Leaflet for Children & Young People

National Autistic Society

A charity offering clear, reliable information about autism, including:

- - Understanding autism
  - Diagnosis
  - Communication
  - Mental health
  - Education and family support

https://www.autism.org.uk/

Support for Adults

Adults can also access help before receiving a diagnosis. Recommended resources from the local NHS service are available at: Resources Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)