EHCP Help / Advice & next steps
NHS vs private autism assessments
You do not need to work everything out at once. Start with what you are noticing and choose a manageable next step.
Quick answer
Compare questions to ask about different pathways without assuming one is right for every family. Read the advice, note the questions that fit your situation and decide what feels like a sensible next step.
What this means
Compare questions to ask about different pathways without assuming one is right for every family. This is general information, not a diagnosis. A useful next step could be to talk with the people who know your child well and ask what support may help now.
Autism can affect communication, social interaction, sensory processing, routines, anxiety, learning and daily life in different ways. Every child and young person is different.
Free information and conversations with school, health or local support services can help you decide what to explore next.
What to do next
Things to check
Questions to ask
Local Northamptonshire route
Check the Northamptonshire Local Offer and the relevant local SENDIASS route for your area. Links should be checked before launch.
Free support and useful links
Professional help is available if you need it
Professional help is optional. You may want free advice first, or choose additional support if you feel it would help your family understand the options.
What happens next?
The next step depends on your child’s age, needs and local route. Keep records, ask questions and review support over time.
Support that may help
School SENCO · GP or health visitor, where relevant · SENDIASS · Educational psychologist · Speech and language therapist · Occupational therapist
Helpful free resources
SEND Compass provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.