How will an autism assessment help me?
An autism assessment can be like a special key to understanding yourself better. Think of it as a detailed map that highlights the unique and amazing ways your brain functions.
By undergoing this assessment, you’ll uncover both your incredible strengths and the areas where you might benefit from some extra guidance or resources.
Moreover, it can connect you with the right tools, strategies, and individuals who truly understand and support you.
This journey is all about recognising and celebrating your individuality, ensuring you’re equipped to navigate the world in the best way possible for you.
Check out the video ‘What is Autism’ for an uplifting introduction to autism.
What is Autism. National Autistic Society. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbwRrVw-CRo
What will I have to do in the assessment?
Your job is to just be yourself – even though it’s called an assessment, you aren’t being ‘tested’ like within education or work. You will chat with a specialist about your hobbies and friendships, and complete some tasks that will show how you interact with people and use your imagination.
How long will the assessment take?
Your in-person assessment will take around 90 minutes, though this will depend on how long the tasks take you to finish. There is no need to rush your assessment, and you will be allowed a short break on the day.
What happens afterwards?
You will meet with the specialist within 5 days of your assessment. Based on your assessment, the specialist will tell you whether they think you are autistic or not.
In the meeting, you will work together with your support network and the specialist to make a plan that will help you make the most of your unique strengths, and handle things you find more difficult. You will also get the chance to tell them about your goals for the future, so they can have the best chance of helping you.
In the assessment room
- During the assessment, you are able to bring a friend or family member with you if this would help you.
- In total, your assessment will take no longer than 90 minutes, depending on how long the tasks take for you to complete.
- You will be allowed to take breaks when needed.
Within 5 working days
- Within 5 working days of the in-person assessment, you will be informed of the outcome in a meeting with the specialist.
- During this meeting, we will work with you to develop a care plan tailored to your needs, taking on board your feedback at every step of the process.
- If you disagree with our decision, you can request a second opinion.
- Regardless of the outcome, you will be signposted to the most appropriate resources and services that we believe will help you thrive.
Post-diagnosis support
- As well as a care plan, you will have access to our online resources, which include specialist advice for autistic people on living well, enhancing social outcomes and quality of life, and what to do if things get difficult.
- 4-6 weeks after we communicate the assessment outcome to you, we will offer a follow-up meeting with your assessment team to catch up on your progress and discuss whether their care plan is helping.
- If you are still struggling, the assessment team will collaborate with you to revise your care plan, with further monthly follow-up meetings.
What are the eligibility requirements for an assessment?
Our assessment service is currently available to adults aged 18 and over who are registered with an NHS GP in Norfolk. If you are based in one of these locations and your GP suspects that you might be autistic, they will refer you to us.
If you aren’t eligible for our service, don’t worry – we will inform your GP of the most appropriate alternative.
How long will the whole assessment process take?
There are lots of adults who need an autism assessment, so waiting lists for services like ours can be up to 5 years long.
What post-diagnostic support will we receive?
Regardless of the assessment outcome, you will have continued access to our digital resource hub.
If you’re not autistic, we will highlight the appropriate next steps in the report. We will also signpost to other groups who might be able to help.
If we find that you are autistic, you will be provided with a written final report complete with recommendations.
How to find us
Venues:
Thetford Venue : Breckland Business Park, St Nicholas Street, Thetford, IP24 1BT
Dereham Venue: Breckland Business Centre, St Withburga Lane, Dereham, NR19 1FD
Parking: There is nearby parking for visitors
Accessibility: Easy access for all at the main reception.
Reception: – Please note, both locations do not have a designated receptionist. If you have a planned appointment, please call us to let us know you have arrived, and we will meet you. Alternatively, Please leave a message with your name and phone number and we will call you back.