Assessments / Advice & next steps
Questions to ask before booking an assessment
It is completely fine to interview a professional before booking an assessment. Asking questions ensures you are getting the right service for your child and will result in a report that actually makes a difference.
Quick answer
Before booking an assessment, ask who will assess, what question they will answer, which methods they use, what the full fee includes and how the report can be used. Check professional registration and avoid any provider promising a diagnosis, legal result or school decision.
What this means
A clear pre-booking conversation should cover scope, consent, information from school, child involvement, accessibility, timescales, cancellation terms, feedback, report amendments and follow-up. Ask what happens if evidence is inconclusive or another professional is more appropriate.
Understand the 'why' of the assessment. If the professional cannot explain how their report will help school staff change their teaching, look for someone who can. The report's value is in its application.
Do not pay for an assessment that promises a specific result, like a diagnosis or an EHCP. No professional can guarantee these outcomes, as they are part of a wider local authority or health decision-making process.
Questions to ask
What exact question will this assessment answer? • Who is assessing and how can I verify registration? • What is included in the total fee, report and follow-up?
Local Northamptonshire route
Check current NHS, school and council routes first. North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire have separate Local Offers and SENDIASS services; health pathways may cover different areas.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Paid assessment is optional. Independent advice may help compare providers, but it should not create pressure to book a connected service.
What happens next?
Keep the written agreement and confirm appointment adjustments. After assessment, compare the delivered work with the agreed scope and ask for clarification promptly.
Support that may help
HCPC-registered professional, School SENCO.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.