Camhs a long wait

[fruitbat2008]

Hi my DD has been referred to camps for possibly adhd or asd she was initially seen in September 2014 and I've heard nothing since I have called them on numerous occasions and been to school and the gp to to give them a nudge but still no news. She is struggling at school both socially and academically and even though the school is aware of a possible diagnosis there can be no help given until a diagnosis is given. She starts year 6 in September so I am quite anxious to get her the help she needs before she starts high school is there anyone else out there with the same problem or advice thanks in advance.

"She is struggling at school both socially and academically and even though the school is aware of a possible diagnosis there can be no help given until a diagnosis is given"

I would have a look at IPSEA's website and have a chat with them too www.ipsea.org.uk because I am certain you have been given duff information re no help until a diagnosis is given.

Although CAMHS certainly have their place they are often underfunded and overworked. Their main area of expertise is not ASD either. I would be asking the GP to refer you to a developmental (not community) paediatrician.

In England what the school is saying is nonsense.

If they can see that she is struggling eg with social communication they should get a Speech and Language therapist in and get some advice about how to help her eg small group social skills training, or whatever seems right to you.

If they can see that she is struggling with attention, then they should be making sure that she has instructions broken down into shorter bursts, and that she has resources sent home, or whatever would help her to keep up.

The law says 'special educational needs must be met'. It does NOT say 'only special educational needs which also attract a diagnosis must be met'

If you are England the you can apply for an EHCP which might result in assessments by an educational psychologist, school, your input, any relevant medics and any relevant social services (possibly not relevant to you).

IPSEA is a great place to start reading up

And lots of support on these boards

Thank you both for the advice I'm in Wales so I'm not sure how different it is from England and my 4 year old DD has been referred to a . Pedestrian due to her lack of concentration, and her learning is not at the stage it should be but no doubt camhs will be needed for her in the future however I got a c a ll back from camhs this afternoon and the letter from the doctor won't speed anything up so the diagnosis won't be until June so I guess it's a waiting game but I will still check out any other avenues.

I believe the law of the land re this matter is the same for Wales as it is for England.