GP says only DS school can do an adhd assessment referral ?

[MorrowTreasure]

So this DS’s GP says they don’t do ADHD referrals and the school has to do them?
The school isn’t very helpful and DS is in his last year there. I am currently trying to get an appointment with the SENCO but even this stage taking a long time. Why is it the GP don’t do referrals? I’ve read others have had GP referrals- is it a London thing?

It varies between local authorities. In most, GPs are allowed to submit referrals but will refuse "because school know them best" (although I suspect is also a workload issue). It is true that for a diagnosis, the school need to be involved at some stage, as there needs to be evidence from at least 2 contexts (so home & school, typically). Meet with the SENCO and see what they say. Also, it would be sensible to speak to the teacher first, to see if they think he may have ADHD (though teachers are often unsure whether they are allowed to say this, some will). It helps if you are able to provide lots of written evidence of your child's needs, as this helps then make the referral.

Yes this makes sense but I’m a bit worried about dealing with the school at all. I know I have to as he needs to have symptoms in two settings but has only been at his school for a year. Plus his teacher has made fun of him on two occasions about his school photo one time (passed it round the class as a joke) and another time made an inappropriate joke about him so am worried she’ll make this an issue in front of the class. Do they have to keep this confidential? Do they in practice?

Those two examples are horrible. Have you put in a complaint about this teacher to the head or another member of SLT? I wouldn't trust that particular teacher.

Have you met the SENCo before?

It depends on the area. Although even in ICBs where they try to insist on school referrals, there will be an alternative. You could also look at a Right to Choose referral to a provider who uses GP referrals.

Schools should not be divulging confidential information.

Have you complained to the school?

Otherwise his teacher seems nice and capable but she’s young and I think maybe emotionally immature? I’m also presuming not that used to neurodivergence.

Haven’t met the SENCO yet. Have asked to have a meeting without DS first as DS has said he doesn’t like him.

Has this teacher or previous teachers agreed with the possibility of adhd? Or have you not brought it up at all? If they see it, the best chance of a successful referral would be through school.

I would urge you to complain about the issues. How will the teacher learn if its ignored?