Understanding what it means to be Autistic
Whilst the medical criteria for an Autism diagnosis can be found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), what it means to be Autistic is a much broader question and is different for every individual. There are a wide range of Autistic authors, bloggers and filmmakers producing material around their Autistic experience on the internet which can provide an extensive and diverse mix of information highlighting what being Autistic means to them.
Identification/Diagnosis
- Information around getting a diagnosis can be found on the NHS website. Click here for more information: How to get an autism assessment - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Information about the referral process can be found here: Barnet Children developmental referral service
- For the NHS waiting room, click here: London waiting room
- Barnet Children and Families Autism Hub are available for support pre and post-diagnosis. Click here for more information: Barnet Children & Families Autism Hub
Post-Diagnosis
- Information providing a summary of support available post diagnosis is available on the National Autistic Society website along with a host of other useful information. Click here to visit the website: Parents and carers (autism.org.uk)
- Barnet Children and Families Autism Hub are available for support pre and post-diagnosis. Click here for more information: Barnet Children & Families Autism Hub
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
Information about EHCP’s can be found on the links below:
- Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND): Extra help - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Barnet Local Offer: EHCPs
SENDIASS
Support with the process of applying for an EHCP and a range of other services can be accessed via the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
About the SENDIASS service | Barnet Council
Autism Advisory Team
Contact the Autism Advisory team for recommended resources/signposting