Health - Children's Therapy Autism Assessment Service

The Children's Therapy Autism Assessment Service at Mid Yorkshire Hospitals provides assessment for children and young people up to the age of 18. 

The service helps to understand whether a child's differences in communication, behaviour and development may be linked to autism. 

How the service works

If there are concerns about autism, a referral can be made using a social communication assessment referral form.

This form has two parts:

• One completed by the parent or carer
• One completed by a professional who knows the child (such as a teacher or health professional)

Assessment process

The assessment begins with a paediatrician who will:

• Take a detailed history of the child's development from birth
• Explore current behaviours and concerns
• Consider and rule out other possible explanations

If autism is considered a possible explanation, the referral will move to a Multi-Disciplinary Assessment (MDA) team for further assessment. 

Multi - Disciplinary Assessment

The MDA involves a range of professionals, depending on the child's needs. This may include:

• Speech and Language Therapists - assessing communication and social interaction
• Occupational Therapists - assessing functional skills, movement, and sensory needs
• Clinical Psychologists - assessing social, emotional, and developmental needs
• ASD Coordinators supporting the assessment process and gathering additional information from families and education settings. 

Assessments are tailored to each child and based on their individual presentation. 

Service location

The service is based at:

Telephone: 01924 541411 (Monday to Sunday 8.30am - 4pm)
Email: midyorks.asccoordinators@nhs.net