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Where there is a concern about possible autism in a child aged 0 to 5, professionals (GP, health visitor, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapist) can refer directly to the team at Somerset Foundation Trust (SFT) (preferably by Advice and Guidance or otherwise by the Community Child Health (CCH) secretaries, email CCHadmin@somersetFT.nhs.uk)
The referral should contain the relevant information required including developmental assessment, nursery reports as well as speech and language reports. When a referral is accepted the following steps will happen.
- Initial contact – The age of the child as well as the location of your GP practice will determine which service you will be contacted by.
- First assessment appointment with child.
- Further assessment appointments as required – Conducted with the relevant professionals and tailored to reflect individual needs.
- Diagnosis – Clinicians will consider the evidence and a diagnosis for Autism will be considered.
- Communicating outcome – This will be done with the child or young person and their family through a face-to-face appointment and assessment report.
- Diagnosis of Autism may or may not be given – Sign-posting is offered.
Visual representation of steps above for children age 0 to 5 years not yet in school.
The Portage Team support families with early-diagnosed Autism or those following the pathway by providing access to services including, home visits, stay-and-play groups and focus groups for children.
