Getting Your Child Assessed for ADHD in the UK

Child ADHD Assessment in the UK

Getting your child assessed for ADHD in the UK can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process helps. There are three main routes: NHS, Right to Choose, and fully private.

NHS Route

Ask your GP for a referral to your local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). The GP may ask about symptoms, school reports, and how long concerns have been present. NHS waiting lists for CAMHS ADHD assessment vary hugely - from 6 months to over 3 years depending on your area.

Right to Choose for Children

Just like adults, children have the Right to Choose their assessment provider under Section 75 of the NHS Act 2006. You can ask your GP to refer to a private provider (such as Clinical Partners or Psychiatry-UK) with the NHS funding the assessment. Wait times are typically 8-16 weeks. Not all areas process these smoothly, so be prepared to advocate firmly.

What the Assessment Involves

A child ADHD assessment typically includes: a detailed developmental history from parents, school questionnaires (Conners or SDQ rating scales), observation of the child, screening for other conditions (autism, anxiety, learning difficulties), and sometimes cognitive testing. The whole process may take 2-4 hours across one or two appointments.

How to Prepare

Gather school reports, any previous educational psychology assessments, examples of difficulties at home and school, and a timeline of when you first noticed concerns. Ask the school to complete any rating scales the assessor sends. Talk to your child in age-appropriate terms - "we're going to see someone who helps children who find concentrating tricky."

After Diagnosis

If ADHD is confirmed, you'll discuss treatment options: behavioural strategies, school support (IEP or EHCP), and possibly medication if your child is over 5. NICE guidelines recommend parent training programmes as a first step for younger children, with medication considered from age 5 if symptoms are moderate to severe.