How to get an adhd and dyslexia assessment

[OneCoolMintMember]

Hi, I am completely lost and don't know where to go next. I spoke to my sons teacher and she has advised I should get him tested for ADHD and dyslexia. He starts year 10 in September so very important 2 years for GCSEs. Wondering what is the quickest route and where do I even start. Thanks

Our GP eventually listened to us and we got the ADHD referral through them. I'm not sure about dyslexia though. Will the school arrange that although Theo will probably be reluctant due to cost.

A lot will depend on your area.

Have a DD in Y10 with dyslexia and ADHD. Dyslexia was diagnosed by Ed Psych at Primary. ADHD we had to go to a private psychiatrist last year.

The waiting list was at least 2 years in our area for an initial NHS appointment, and she'd have basically finished school by then!

You will need to see your GP and ask if they can refer using Right To Choose. If that is not an option and you can afford private (If just ADHD in the mix, budget at least around the 1.5k+ mark) then check if they will accept 'shared care'.

It's about 6 months to get the meds titrated if you go that route and if meds are suggested and the child responds well to them. Longer if you have to try different types.

For dyslexia you want to find an Ed Psych who can do a full assessment. It's not something you can get done by a single provider.

In Y10, you also need to check what is happening with exam access arrangements at school. It's not a given that you get extra time with a dyslexia Dx, it comes down to their scores on specific tests. It also has to be their normal way of working so you would need to get that in place sooner rather than later.

I second @OhCrumbsWhereNow.

For ADHD, some areas can self refer. If you can’t in your area speak to the GP and school.

For dyslexia, unfortunately the situation in schools and LAs means outwith the EHCP process, unless DS’s needs are significant, an educational psychologist assessment via school or the LA is unlikely. You can look at an independent assessment, either an ed psych or a dyslexia assessor - personally I would go with an EP assessment especially if you suspect there are other factors at play.

Have you spoken to the SENCO? What support is the school providing?

If you look on the dyslexia guild or Patoss websites there are lists of dyslexia assessors. Many of us do face-to-face or online assessments via Zoom or Teams. An assessment takes 3-4 hours and costs between £300-£600.
make sure you get someone who has an Assessment Practicing Certificate.

No I only had the conversation on Thursday with the teacher. Let a message for senco to call me back om Friday, I'm still waiting.

Have they been in touch yet?

Hi yes spoke to them today. Doing a dyslexia screening this week but just gives a marker then we have to do it ourselves privately if they think any concerns. Already got the ball rolling so to speak with applying for an assessment for adhd. Spoke to all the teachers and asked for feedback from each class then will forward all paperwork. Thanks for asking.