An assessment for Autism may be needed at any point in an individual’s life from early childhood to late adulthood, whenever key differences or difficulties in social communication, interaction and imagination become apparent.
There is no one test for Autism. The assessment process may involve gathering information for a detailed autism-focussed childhood history, standard tests or questionnaires, and (particularly for children and young people) observations in a range of different settings. This can mean that the assessment process can be complex, lengthy and, in some cases, involve a number of different professionals. Getting a diagnosis can lead to better understanding of an individual’s difficulties and strengths, and enable someone to get the right help and support from formal services and from their friends and family.
See our learning module on diagnosis in the Learn About Autism section for more information on the characteristics of Autism, the assessment process and the potential benefits of an Autism diagnosis.
Children and Young People
Autism Assessments in the Borders are carried out by the multi-agency Borders Autism Team (BAT), based within the NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). If you think your child or young person needs an Autism assessment, please discuss with the Education or Health professional that knows them best, or ask your GP to consider a referral to CAMHS.
Adults
Autism Assessments for adults who do not also have a Learning Disability are carried out by the Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT). Please speak to your GP about getting an assessment. Your GP may ask you some questions about why you think an Autism Assessment would be useful for you, to help them make a referral.
Adults with a Learning Disability
The Learning Disability Service carries out assessments of adults who have a coexisting Learning Disability. If the individual receives a service from the Learning Disability Team, speak to their current worker(s) about an assessment. Alternatively, ask your GP to consider a referral to the Team for an assessment.
Assessment Best Practice
All assessment services in the Borders aim to meet the appropriate best practice guidelines. For adults, these are the NICE guidelines, and for children and young people, the SIGN guidelines.