About
Where there is a concern about possible autism in a child aged 0 to 5, professionals can refer directly to the team at Somerset Foundation Trust (SFT). The GP, health visitor, Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist should use Advice and Guidance route. Otherwise they can email the Community Child Health (CCH) secretaries at CCHadmin@somersetFT.nhs.uk.
The referral should contain the relevant information required. This includes 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.
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.
