What is NHS Right to Choose for ADHD?

NHS Right to Choose is a policy in England that allows patients to ask their GP to refer them to any CQC-registered provider for an ADHD assessment at no cost to the patient. The NHS funds the assessment in full. It is not available in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, where patients must be assessed through their devolved health board.

How much does a private ADHD assessment cost in the UK?

Private ADHD assessments in the UK typically cost between £450 and £1,400 for the initial assessment, depending on the provider, age group, and whether the clinic is online or in-person. Medication titration and follow-up appointments are often charged separately.

How much does a private autism assessment cost in the UK?

Private autism assessments in the UK typically cost between £1,200 and £2,500, depending on the provider and whether a child or adult is being assessed. Combined AuDHD assessments (covering both ADHD and autism) are also available and can be more cost-effective than booking separately.

How long does it take to get an ADHD assessment in the UK?

NHS waiting times can exceed several years in some areas. Via NHS Right to Choose, waits are typically 12–24 weeks. Private ADHD assessments can usually be booked within 2–6 weeks.

Can my child get an ADHD or autism assessment through NHS Right to Choose?

NHS Right to Choose in England covers children under 18 as well as adults, though not all providers accept under-18s. Seen Sooner filters providers by age group so you only see suitable options for your child.

Is Seen Sooner free to use?

Yes — Seen Sooner is completely free. We never charge for the matching service. Providers may charge for assessments, which we display upfront so you can compare costs before deciding.

Can adults self-refer for an ADHD assessment in the UK?

For private assessments, most providers in the UK allow adults to self-refer without a GP letter, though some prefer one. For NHS Right to Choose, you must obtain a GP referral first — your GP cannot refuse a referral request to an eligible provider.

Do I need a GP referral for an ADHD or autism assessment?

For NHS Right to Choose you need your GP to issue a referral letter. For fully private assessments, most providers accept self-referral, though some ask for a GP letter as background. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a GP referral is always required for NHS-funded assessment.

What is the difference between ADHD and autism assessments?

ADHD and autism are assessed using different clinical tools. ADHD assessments focus on attention, hyperactivity, and executive function using tools like DIVA or Conners. Autism assessments focus on social communication and sensory processing using tools like ADOS-2 or ADI-R. Some providers offer combined AuDHD pathways assessing both at once, which can be more cost-effective.

How much does an autism assessment cost in the UK?

Private autism assessments in the UK typically cost between £1,200 and £2,500, depending on the provider and whether a child or adult is being assessed. Combined AuDHD assessments covering both ADHD and autism are also available and can be more cost-effective than booking separately.

Is an ADHD or autism diagnosis from a private provider accepted by the NHS?

Yes. A diagnosis from a CQC-registered private provider is clinically valid and should be accepted by NHS GPs for shared care arrangements. However, some GPs and ICBs may resist prescribing medication under shared care — it is advisable to check your local policy before booking.

What is shared care for ADHD medication?

Shared care is an arrangement where the specialist (private or NHS Right to Choose provider) initiates ADHD medication and then hands ongoing prescriptions to your NHS GP. Not all GPs accept shared care agreements from private providers. Seen Sooner highlights which providers offer shared care support.

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Parent's guide · Updated June 2026

A Parent's Guide to Getting Your Child Assessed for Autism in the UK

Navigating a child's autism assessment can be overwhelming — especially when NHS waiting lists stretch for years. This guide explains every step of the process, from first concerns to receiving a diagnosis, across all four UK nations.

~10 min read Last updated June 2026 For parents and carers

This guide is for information only and does not constitute medical or clinical advice. Every child is different — always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation.

Your options at a glance

NHS Right to Choose

England only

Cost: Free

Wait: 12–26 weeks

NHS Standard Pathway

All UK

Cost: Free

Wait: 1–4+ years

Private Assessment

All UK

Cost: £1,500–£2,500

Wait: 2–8 weeks

Step-by-step: from first concerns to diagnosis

Notice the signs and gather observations

Autism presents differently in every child. Common signs include difficulties with social communication, sensory sensitivities, preference for routine, repetitive behaviours, and intense focus on specific interests. Girls and some boys may present more subtly (often called "masking"). Before seeking a referral, keep a written record of the specific behaviours you have noticed and how they affect your child at home and at school. Ask your child's teacher or SENCO for their observations — this evidence is invaluable during the assessment.

Speak to your child's school SENCO

The Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at your child's school can be a crucial ally. They can document concerns formally, refer your child for educational psychology input, support an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) application, and in some areas make or support a referral to the diagnostic pathway. In many cases, a referral from the SENCO alongside a GP referral strengthens your case for faster assessment.

Visit your GP for a referral

For NHS assessment, your GP refers your child to the local community paediatrics or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) team. NHS waiting times for children's autism assessments vary from 12 months to over 4 years depending on your area. In England, parents can request a referral under NHS Right to Choose to a CQC-registered private provider at no cost — your GP cannot refuse this request. Bring your written record of observations and any letters from the school SENCO.

Choose your assessment route

In England, NHS Right to Choose gives access to private CQC-registered providers at NHS cost, typically with wait times of 12–26 weeks. Private assessment (self-funded) is available across all UK nations and is usually possible within 2–8 weeks. The NHS standard pathway remains the longest route but is free everywhere. Some families pursue both — getting on the NHS waiting list while also booking privately for speed.

Understand what the assessment involves

A gold-standard child autism assessment typically includes: a developmental history interview with parents/carers (often using the ADI-R tool), direct observation of the child using the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), cognitive or educational testing in some cases, and input from the school via questionnaires. The process usually involves 2–4 appointments. It is important that the clinicians are trained in ADOS-2 administration — ask providers about this when enquiring.

Support your child during the process

The assessment process can be tiring and sometimes confusing for children. Explain to your child in age-appropriate terms what will happen — many children feel reassured to know the appointments are not like a doctor's visit. Some providers offer video resources or pre-visit information specifically for children and young people. After assessments, children may need extra downtime to recover from the social demands.

Receive the report and next steps

After the assessment, a written diagnostic report will usually arrive within 2–6 weeks. If autism is confirmed, the report will include recommendations for support. Take copies to share with your child's school (to inform SEND support or EHCP applications), your GP, and any other professionals involved. If your child is not diagnosed but you remain concerned, ask about further assessment or a second opinion.

Frequently asked questions

What age can children be assessed for autism?

Autism can be diagnosed from around age 2–3 in some cases, though many assessments take place when children start school and social difficulties become more apparent. Some children are not assessed until adolescence — particularly girls, who often mask well in early childhood. Most providers assess children from age 3 or 4 upwards.

How much does a private child autism assessment cost in the UK?

Private autism assessments for children typically cost £1,500–£2,500 in the UK, depending on the provider and the complexity of the assessment. Combined autism and ADHD (AuDHD) assessments may cost more. Via NHS Right to Choose in England, there is no cost to the family.

Can I request NHS Right to Choose for my child?

Yes. In England, children under 18 are covered by NHS Right to Choose. Ask your GP to refer your child to any CQC-registered provider offering children's autism assessments. Your GP cannot refuse a Right to Choose referral. Not all providers accept under-18s, so check before choosing one.

Will a private diagnosis be recognised by schools and the NHS?

A diagnosis from a CQC-registered provider (in England) should be recognised by schools for SEND support purposes and by the NHS. Schools cannot legally refuse to accept a private diagnosis. However, local authorities sometimes require re-assessment by NHS-employed clinicians for EHCP purposes — this varies by area.

My child was assessed and did not receive a diagnosis. What now?

Not every child who presents with autistic traits will receive a diagnosis — assessments are a clinical snapshot and some children fall below the diagnostic threshold. If your concerns remain, you can request a second opinion, ask for a re-assessment in 12–18 months, or pursue support via the SEND route at school without a formal diagnosis. Many SEND supports do not require a diagnosis.

Should I tell my child they are being assessed for autism?

Generally yes — research and clinical practice increasingly supports age-appropriate openness with children. A child who understands that clinicians are trying to understand how their brain works, rather than looking for something "wrong", is often more relaxed during appointments. Many providers offer child-facing explanatory materials.

Find assessment providers for your child

Enter your postcode to see NHS Right to Choose and private providers near you that assess children.

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