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For professionals

Referral criteria for the Adult Autism Triage Service

The service is provided to all adults who meet the following criteria:

  • Suspect they are autistic and want a diagnosis.
  • Have longstanding difficulties managing change.
  • Find social interaction and communication problematic.
  • May have additional sensory differences.

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For a patient under 18 years of age

Please visit Kent Children and Young People's Mental Health Service CYPMHS | NELFT NHS Foundation Trust.

For GPs considering referring to our service

  • What characteristics and behaviours does the person report which match  traits in NICE - autism?
  • Are these issues life-long, or has there been a recent onset or change in behaviour?
  • Are the behaviours apparent across all areas of the person’s life?
  • How would the process and outcome of this assessment benefit their mental and emotional wellbeing?
  • What do the people who know them well think about the idea of them being assessed for autism?

In your referral form online please summarise

  • Your reasons for referring
  • Evidence for any differences in your patient's social and communicative presentation, as well as any fixed routines, rituals or special interests
  • A health record summary
  • If the patient brings any written evidence of their concerns consider attaching this to your referral.

Reasonable adjustments a patient may need

  • Information provided in Easy read
  • A carer to support them during appointment
  • First appointment of the day and/or a longer appointment
  • Social storiesTM
  • Desensitisation and quiet place to wait
  • Use of simple words/language
  • Support from Autism Triage Service.