Parent's guide · Updated June 2026
A Parent's Guide to Getting Your Child Assessed for Autism in the UK
NHS waiting lists for children's autism assessment run to years in much of the UK. This guide explains how the process works in each of the four nations, and what your options are if the local wait is too long.
This guide is for information only and does not constitute medical or clinical advice. Every child is different — always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation.
Your options at a glance
NHS Right to Choose
England onlyNHS standard pathway
All UKPrivate assessment
All UKOutside England? NHS Right to Choose does not apply in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland — each nation runs its own NHS pathway with different referral routes and waits. See our dedicated guides for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Step-by-step: from first concerns to diagnosis
Notice the signs and gather observations
Common signs of autism in children include difficulties with social communication, sensory sensitivities, preference for routine, repetitive behaviours, and intense focus on specific interests. Girls and some boys may present more subtly (often called "masking"). Before seeking a referral, keep a written record of the specific behaviours you have noticed and how they affect your child at home and at school. Ask your child's teacher or SENCO for their observations too; assessors give real weight to what school reports.
Speak to your child's school SENCO
The Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at your child's school is worth involving early. They can document concerns formally, refer your child for educational psychology input, support an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) application, and in some areas make or support a referral to the diagnostic pathway. In many cases, a referral from the SENCO alongside a GP referral strengthens your case for faster assessment.
Visit your GP for a referral
For NHS assessment, your GP refers your child to the local community paediatrics or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) team. NHS waiting times for children's autism assessments vary from 12 months to over 4 years depending on your area. In England, parents can request a referral under NHS Right to Choose to a CQC-registered private provider at no cost. Once your GP agrees that a referral is warranted, they cannot restrict which provider you choose. Bring your written record of observations and any letters from the school SENCO.
Choose your assessment route
In England, NHS Right to Choose gives access to private CQC-registered providers at NHS cost, with waits that vary by area; some areas have minimum waits of a year or more. Private assessment (self-funded) is available across all UK nations and is usually possible within 2–8 weeks. The NHS standard pathway remains the longest route but is free everywhere. Some families pursue both — getting on the NHS waiting list while also booking privately for speed.
Understand what the assessment involves
A gold-standard child autism assessment typically includes: a developmental history interview with parents/carers (often using the ADI-R tool), direct observation of the child using the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), cognitive or educational testing in some cases, and input from the school via questionnaires. The process usually involves 2–4 appointments. It is important that the clinicians are trained in ADOS-2 administration — ask providers about this when enquiring.
Support your child during the process
The assessment process can be tiring and sometimes confusing for children. Explain to your child in age-appropriate terms what will happen — many children feel reassured to know the appointments are not like a doctor's visit. Some providers offer video resources or pre-visit information specifically for children and young people. After assessments, children may need extra downtime to recover from the social demands.
Receive the report and next steps
After the assessment, a written diagnostic report will usually arrive within 2–6 weeks. If autism is confirmed, the report will include recommendations for support. Take copies to share with your child's school (to inform SEND support or EHCP applications), your GP, and any other professionals involved. If your child is not diagnosed but you remain concerned, ask about further assessment or a second opinion.
Frequently asked questions
What age can children be assessed for autism?
Autism can be diagnosed from around age 2–3 in some cases, though many assessments take place when children start school and social difficulties become more apparent. Some children are not assessed until adolescence — particularly girls, who often mask well in early childhood. Most providers assess children from age 3 or 4 upwards.
How much does a private child autism assessment cost in the UK?
Private autism assessments for children typically cost £1,500–£2,500 in the UK, depending on the provider and the complexity of the assessment. Combined autism and ADHD (AuDHD) assessments may cost more. Via NHS Right to Choose in England, there is no cost to the family.
Can I request NHS Right to Choose for my child?
Yes. In England, children under 18 are covered by NHS Right to Choose. Ask your GP to refer your child to any CQC-registered provider offering children's autism assessments. Once your GP agrees to refer, they cannot restrict your choice of provider. Not all providers accept under-18s, so check before choosing one.
Will a private diagnosis be recognised by schools and the NHS?
A diagnosis from a CQC-registered provider (in England) should be recognised by schools for SEND support purposes and by the NHS. Schools must make reasonable adjustments for a disabled pupil under the Equality Act 2010 regardless of where the diagnosis came from, and SEND support is based on need rather than on holding a diagnosis. However, local authorities sometimes require re-assessment by NHS-employed clinicians for EHCP purposes — this varies by area.
My child was assessed and did not receive a diagnosis. What now?
Not every child who presents with autistic traits will receive a diagnosis — assessments are a clinical snapshot and some children fall below the diagnostic threshold. If your concerns remain, you can request a second opinion, ask for a re-assessment in 12–18 months, or pursue support via the SEND route at school without a formal diagnosis. Many SEND supports do not require a diagnosis.
Should I tell my child they are being assessed for autism?
Generally yes — research and clinical practice increasingly supports age-appropriate openness with children. A child who understands that clinicians are trying to understand how their brain works, rather than looking for something "wrong", is often more relaxed during appointments. Many providers offer child-facing explanatory materials.
Find assessment providers for your child
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