How crap are CAMHS? Experiences Hants/Dorset?

[debs40]

In our area they are called Child and Family Services.

They deal with the ASD assessement. They have a massive waiting list. They are not formally funded so in essence don't really exist as an ASD service, although they do advertise thesee services through the NAS. This is because they are funded for referrals from out of the area.

They have no information about the process. No leaflets for parents. Offer no advice while on the waiting list. They do not return calls or answer letters save to say they are not funded for this work .... why do it, it just causes more problems??

There is a team which carries out the diagnostic tests called the Social Communications Disorder Group. So, I have asked for their details and level of expertise, status etc.

The answer? We can't tell you this before diagnosis . How crap are they?

This is why we need to get referred somewhere else. Does anyone have any good experiences around Dorset/Hants way?

Hi Debs, just replied to your other post in response to mine about being in Wilts.
I have a social worker because my eldest child has a terminal condition and she is aware that my son is asd but no one has ever mentioned Child and Fam Services to me !

The lack of info around this area is shocking i think.

I was going to go to the NAS meeting in town tomorrow night but can't make it now.

Sorry,i know thats not an answer to your question but i found your post about the process interesting espec as now i know we're in the same area

Debs, we are in hants.
DS had app.this morning with senior paed. decision is to refer to Camhs.

I was told DS would be seen at CAMHS Woodworth house clinic and that waiting times were atm of about 3 months for under 5, which is good as DS is just 4, as assessment waiting times for over 5 were about 12 to 18 months.

Hi Jo

I wasn't aware that there was a functioning NAS branch around here. I found a website for Wiltshire NAS but no one replies from their contact address

Can't comment on how good/bad they are as we haven't seen them yet, so was just relaying info on waiting times paed gave us this morning.
Wish i could be more helpful.

....not Woodworth house! It's Wordsworth house.... doh!

I wasn't aware either but in the Journal they're advertising an open meeting re revitalising this branch, Weds 18th Nov at The White Hart Hotel, 7.30pm, St John Street, Salisbury.
I can't make this one but i would definately go to the next one thats held,if only to ask lots of questions
An email add on there is [email protected], she's the regional officer. The phone number supplied is 077 6767 8984.

Thanks. Will email her now.