Neurodiversity support
There is a range of support available for children and young people with autism (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Although it is possible to get support without a diagnosis, you may want your child or young person to be assessed for Autism, ADHD or both. The child or young person themselves may feel that this would be helpful.
View the advice and guidance on the Rotherham SEND Local Offer website
In Rotherham, the following services offer diagnostic assessments:
Children under 5 years of age
The Child Development Centre (CDC) in Rotherham offers a service for pre-schoolers in Rotherham. They are able to carry out a full multi-disciplinary neurodevelopmental assessment for autism. Health professionals, nurseries, schools and portage workers can all refer children into the CDC.
Visit the Child Development Centre (CDC) website
Children and young people between 5 years and 17 years
Rotherham’s child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) assess for Autism and ADHD as part of their neurodevelopmental pathway.
Referrals are received through the child or young person’s school or educational setting (unless the child/young person is electively home educated). Referrals include detailed information from families.
The child or young person’s educational setting must provide evidence of at least two terms of intervention to support the child or young person. The information submitted is considered by a multi-agency panel and, if it is felt that there is sufficient evidence of a neurodevelopmental difference, the referral will be accepted.
Regardless of the outcome of this screening, the panel will always aim to make recommendations to support the young person and their family.
Young people – 18 years and over
Diagnostic assessments for adults are offered by Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH).
Rotherham residents are also able to access neurodevelopmental assessments under the NHS’s Right to Choose pathway.
Visit the South Yorkshire ICB website
If you want to request an assessment for a young person with a moderate to severe learning disability, please contact the Intellectual Disabilities Team in CAMHS.
