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Original poster

ASD referral help while waiting

14 replies

Mydustymonstera · 22/08/2023 21:50

Hi
I’ve just seen the GP to start the long process of getting some assessment or support for my 11 yr old DD.
I thought we were probably looking at an ADHD assessment path (thinking ADD) but having talked it through I’ve actually come away with a referral made on the autism pathway.
ive noticed behaviours that fit both ADD and those that don’t and seem more autism-ish. I am full of doubt and anxiety and would love to hear from others who have been down these routes.
also looking for any west of Scotland resources or supports or online if anyone has recommendations
thanks all

OP posts:
UsingChangeofName · 22/08/2023 22:24

I'm not in Scotland, so can't help with specifics, but have you talked to the school ?
Where I am, the school SENCo would usually be able to signpost you to support local to you.

Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 22/08/2023 23:05

Thanks. School is next to speak to. Have to arrange a meeting with them. I’ll be sure to ask if they can connect us to any supports. They haven’t raised any issues I’ve had to bring what I’ve noticed to them.

OP posts:
MonsterChopz · 22/08/2023 23:13

I'm west of Scotland too. CAMHS neuro developmental services in our area have pretty long waitlist, I think they are currently working on January 2020 referrals. Is she still in primary school?

Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 22/08/2023 23:17

Yes. The referral is to community paediatrics not Camhs because apparently that’s how it works here. But I imagine the wait times are similar…. Yes in primary. That’s why I need some support while waiting for the assessment, secondary transition and many other hurdles to be crossed in the years I expect to wait for it!

OP posts:
WhatsitWiggle · 22/08/2023 23:29

Autistic Girls Network - website and Facebook groups, really helpful and supportive
The originator, Cathy Wessell, has also written a book which I found super helpful in identifying co morbidities that I hadn't been aware of eg thinking my daughter was very clumsy, messy and disorganised when these are traits on dyspraxia.

Will your daughter be moving to secondary in September 2024? Worth trying for an EHCP on the info you have now, you don't need to wait for a diagnosis, and focus on the transition as the reason for the request as you want the potential secondaries to be able to meet her needs.

Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 23/08/2023 07:47

Thank you both. Just joined the mighty on the back of that comic as I found it helpful.
I don’t think we have ehcp here? But our school does do enhanced transition for some kids so will ask about that.

OP posts:
Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 23/08/2023 07:47

We know for sure which secondary it will be but I’m so worried about how she’ll manage over the next few years.

OP posts:
MonsterChopz · 23/08/2023 10:36

We've just gone through something similar, please feel free to message me and I can tell you some of the things that have helped us.

Cassimin · 23/08/2023 10:42

Sorry not in your area but in mine they have lots of support groups that offer training.
They are run for pre and post diagnosis.
They really were a lifeline for me, meeting other parents who can signpost you to other places/services is the best thing you can do.
When we received diagnoses they just gave us a sheet of paper advising me to contact the organisations I had been training with. That was it!
Im a foster carer and have had lots of training around these conditions but being with other parents is the best training and support you can get.

Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 30/08/2023 22:04

Hi wee update I spoke with the school. They were good and have noticed all the same traits. I think I was expecting to have to push for something but they were completely in agreement that there is some kind of Add/autism/anxiety going on.
some support strategies discussed & agreed. Currently she is doing pretty well so I’m not going to try to mention any diagnoses to her partly as this is going to take years. But I will start having conversations about challenges she faces such as concentrating or starting & finishing tasks. Hopefully that will open routes to have more conversations as time goes on. Feeling really rattled & anxious myself hardly got any work done last few days but I think this must be positive step.

OP posts:
UsingChangeofName · 30/08/2023 22:31

Sounds really positive @Mydustymonstera Smile

Original poster
Mydustymonstera · 30/08/2023 22:44

Yes it is hopeful thank you 😊
@WhatsitWiggle thank you for the autistic girls network pointer - it looks great!!

OP posts:
WhatsitWiggle · 30/08/2023 22:51

That sounds really positive from the school, so often they don't see the same things and you have a battle. Hopefully support that they have readily available will help.

AGN is fantastic, not just for the advice but also in knowing you're not alone on this journey x

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