ASD: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

 

 

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by difficulties with socal communication, interacting with others and restrictive and repetitive behaviour and/or interests. This is somtimes called 'the dyad of impairments'.

 

Although it may sometimes feel that the assessment focuses on difficulties, we will certainly also be looking for children's strengths and recognise that people with neurodiversity absolutely have many strengths in many different areas.

 

The term 'spectrum' means that the characteristics of Autism will vary between individuals. Therefore, a 'one size fits all' approach to assessment does not work.

 

That is why, at Birmingham Community Healthcare, we take a holistic and individualised approach to assessing children and young people within our catchment area.

 

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a diagnostic name given the characteristics described above. This wording or explanation does not fit everyone and we would encourgae families to decide between them how they wish to explain and understand any potential diagnosis of Autism.

 

We would also encourage parents/carers to allow their children to explore what term, if any, fits for them when they are appropriately aged to do so.

 

 

How to make a referral

• Referrals must be made by a professional from health, social care or education.
• Families referred must be registered to a Birmingham GP.
• Referrals are currently accepted for children and young people aged 2.5 years to 16 years.
• To make a referral, we will need as much information as possible in order to ensure that the child is assessed by the most appropriate professional or team.
• For further information on making referrals, including access to the referral forms: ADHD, ASD