Service overview
We provide autism assessments for children and young people from 2.5 years to 17.5 years old, who are registered with a GP in Berkshire. We are a team of specialists, including speech and language therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, community paediatricians, specialist nurses, assistant psychologists, and administrators. We work in a range of locations across Berkshire.
For young people and adults aged 18 years or over, please visit our Adult Autism Assessment Service.
Accessing our service
A referral to our service is a request for an assessment. We will then review the referral information to determine whether an autism assessment is needed at this time.
When we are reviewing referral information we will consider whether there is clear evidence of behaviours and experiences that are likely to be related to autism. We will also consider how the child or young person presents in different settings, and the impact of any difficulties they are experiencing on their day-to-day functioning and wellbeing.
There are many things that might look like possible autism or ADHD, but are not. This can include things like a hearing problem, speech and language difficulties, learning difficulties, depression and anxiety, bullying, and emotional worries. It’s important, therefore, to carefully consider these possibilities before thinking about requesting an autism or ADHD assessment.
Referrals are made together by families and the child’s nursery or school. This helps us get a full picture from the people who know the child best. You will fill in an extra information form together and upload it with the online referral form.
A referral should only be made after a support plan has been in place for at least six months (or two school terms) and has been fully tried, reviewed and updated. This helps us understand what has already been done to support the child and what they need next.
Support while waiting for an autism assessment
Preparing for an assessment
After we receive your referral
We'll review your referral and send you a letter.
It will tell you whether we think an autism assessment is needed, and what will happen next. We can also recommend guides and support while you wait for the appointment.
If we don’t think an assessment is needed, we’ll explain why and suggest other ways to get help.
Your appointment
You’ll be invited to one of our centres for your assessment.
Two of our team members will meet with you. One will talk to you as the parent or carer, and the other will spend time with the child or young person.
The appointment lasts up to 3 hours. We’ll also look at forms and reports from others who know your child. Sometimes we can give feedback the same day, but we might need more information, like a school visit.
If autism is diagnosed, we’ll share support options for home and school, including local autism-specific workshops, specialist advisory teachers (where available), and an online support network.
If autism is not diagnosed, we’ll discuss the young person’s strengths and differences, and recommend other sources of support such as other parenting workshops or groups.
If your child was under 5 at the time of referral and your GP is within Windsor and Maidenhead, Slough or Bracknell, you will be seen by the East Berkshire Community Paediatrics Team for your autism assessment.
Managing your health
Contact us and FAQs
Who should I contact?
If you are calling about a referral, please contact the triage team:
Email: CYPADHDandAutismTriage@berkshire.nhs.uk
Phone: 0118 904 6620
If your referral has been accepted and you are waiting for an assessment, please contact the admin team:
Email: CYPAATAdmin@berkshire.nhs.uk
Phone: 0118 904 6425
Autism Assessment Service for children and young people
Contact number: 0118 904 6425 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays)
Email: cypaatadmin@berkshire.nhs.uk
Erlegh House
Location detailsLower Henwick Farm
Location detailsWokingham Hospital
Location detailsSt Mark's Hospital
Location detailsFir Tree House
Location detailsDingley Child Development Centre
Location detailsFrequently asked questions
Whether you're considering a referral, waiting for an assessment, looking for support, or seeking information for school, our FAQ pages provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from families and professionals.
iWantGreatCare
Did you get great care? Having your say helps care for everyone, so please give us your feedback
Provide service feedback: Have your sayRelated services
Autism Assessment Service
An assessment-only service for adults who think they may be autistic and would benefit from a formal assessment.
Autism Assessment Service: Go to serviceExternal and local support
There are local, Berkshire-wide and national services that can help children and families with autism-related needs. This includes help with school and education. You can get support whether or not you or your child has an autism diagnosis.