Thank you for your recent Freedom of Information request. Please find our response below.
1. The assessment model you use.
There are at least two assessment sessions, conducted by a multi-disciplinary team and consisting of
in-depth history taking, where possible including information from an informant who knows the individual
well, alongside the use of standardised assessment tools such as the Autism Quotient AQ, both long
and short form., the Ritvo Autism and Aspergers Diagnostic RAADS. and elements of the Autism
Diagnostic Observation Schedule ADOS..
Although some people with a mild learning disability may access the main team at Lexham Lodge,
where it is clear that there are likely to be ongoing needs, that would be best met by the Community
Learning Disability Teams people and the person may be assessed within these teams. The approach
to assessment is very similar in that, it is conducted by a multi-disciplinary team, includes an in-depth
history with informant input and uses standardised tools where appropriate but this may not always be
possible depending on the level of learning disability as some people with a more severe learning
disability may not be able to engage with such an assessment..
2. Any paperwork/emails you send out in relation to ASC assessment and diagnosis.
The AQ-10 is often completed prior to referral, once received the referral is acknowledged and
unfortunately people are advised that there is a wait; questionnaires are shared to gather initial
background information prior to assessment. Following the assessment, a very in-depth report is shared
with the individual and GP and we used to. also send a more generic letter that people could share
with employers for example to confirm the diagnosis and share some information on the sort of support
or adjustments that could be helpful.
This process is similar across the mainstream and learning disability service but most referrals for
assessment within the learning disability teams come from within the teams so less written
communication with the individual at the beginning of the process as the care co-ordinator will be
liaising with them.
FOI Request
I am interested in gathering information on the different Autism Spectrum Condition ASC. assessment models that are used within your NHS trust. I was hoping you could share some information with us.
We are looking for the following: 1. The assessment model you use
2. Any paperwork/emails you send out in relation to ASC assessment and diagnosis
3. If and when you need psychological input from a Clinical psychologist during the diagnostic process