Confused about adhd referral

[34weekmess]

Ds was referred nearly a year ago to look into potential adhd - I've just received a letter from peads stating they need proof of family engagement with family support services or something, what is this ? And is this a new part of the referral process ?

They're saying they won't take the referral any further until we've provided evidence we have engaged with this family support.
Thing is, we haven't had to ? Ds isn't badly behaved or disruptive or anything, he is diagnosed autistic and shows alot of traits of inattentive adhd, this is the reason for seeking an assessment purely so ds has support he needs in school and to help with our application of a ehcp.

They have also said school should refer to some behavioural services too before they will take any further action.

Is this normal or a new thing ?

Thanks

The referral process varies area to area, but, yes, in some areas (an increasing number) before an assessment support from family support service or early help or similar is required.

Don’t wait for an ADHD assessment before requesting an EHCNA. You can do that now. On their website, ISPEA has a model letter you can use. Support in schools and EHCPs are based on needs, not diagnosis.

Thank you. What do family support do though ? We're not struggling at home with behaviours so I fail to see what good this will do?

What family support workers provide varies area to area. Even if there are not behavioural concerns, there may be things you/they can do to further support DS.

For example, some work with schools to improve support there/with an EHCNA request, some can help with accessing the community short breaks/SN groups/social interaction, some can help with executive functioning skills/organisational skills, some can look at housing/making the home meet DC’s needs better, some can help with DLA applications. You may not find it helpful, especially if you already have support in place with DS having ASD. If that is the case, think of it as a box ticking exercise to get the ADHD assessment.

Unfortunately, areas are using it as a delaying tactic. IMO, there’s nothing wrong with looking at support from family support services, but it would be far better if it was alongside the assessment process rather than delaying it.