what to do before assessment/dx

[NiceCupOfTeaAndASitDown]

I've posted before about my DS - 3.2, showing lots of signs of ASD, possibly DCD and many sensory issues..he's just been referred for a multidisciplinary assessment, which I'm aware could take many weeks if not months to come through

so my questions are as follows

1. is it possible/likely the referral for assessment (made by a SALT) could be refused? if so what steps would I take to appeal (is this on the ipsea website? I find it very confusing

2. if I were to apply for an assessment of SEN is that the same form as a statement? how do I know what areas will be affected at school when he's not even in nursery yet? (starting this week) - I only have a vague idea how his issues will effect his learning, I think it's more likely sensory overload that may be a problem and social stuff with peers

3. is it worth applying for something like DLA? - if so what kind of stuff would I be looking for help with? I think an OT would really help or just some advice on how to deal with him sometimes...could it help with that or should I wait on the NHS?

my main issue at the moment and reason to try and get things moving is that he's having more and more meltdowns and just cannot be calmed. I don't know what to do for him. he's very vocal but often 'loses' his speech when frustrated or upset and starts to squeal/shriek and cannot seem to find words for his feelings or to ask for help (or cannot understand that sometimes I cannot drop everything to help him put a playmobil person in a car that very instant) - his behaviour is becoming more and more agressive "I want to hit you" and defiant - "I haven't got time [to open the door I just slammed in DD's face] at the moment" and dangerous - I suppose I just want to be doing something practical while I wait

hi polter yes I've got those fact files saved on my phone, I'll look at them again. Will check out the celebra guide and I've ordered both those books. many thanks

1. It is possible for any referral to get refused but for different reasons - 2 I'm aware of are not meeting the criteria they have predefined, and resourcing (though Im sure you could contest); probably both down to the same things anyway £££££!

It is however, unlikely to get refused IMO. Your SALT is a professional and their opinion will have value.

2. yes sounds like the same thing you are referring to. Look up the IPSEA website and that will guide you. They have a great telephone support line which very helpful people who know their stuff.

3. yes the cerebra book is superb. while your DC is undiagnosed and very young then IMO it is harder to get DLA. what they are looking for is things you have to do for your DC that other parents do not have to. e.g. my 8 year old DS soils and has sleepless nights. NT DCs do not do this at 8 but at 2 yrs many more do.

That isn't to say you shouldn't apply. but be prepared to appeal. we applied got turned down, appealed and then 2 weeks after the appeal had DS first diagnosis. I phoned the DLA and within 24 hours they had given it!

It shouldn't be dependent on diagnosis however. You don't get if you don't ask. Also have you checked out if your council give any short breaks for respite? some give cash, others hold Saturday clubs etc.

best of luck