London has both world-class autism specialists and one of the most strained NHS waiting lists for autism assessment in the UK. In many London boroughs, families are waiting 2�3 years for an NHS assessment. Understanding the pathways available � and what you can do in parallel � makes a significant difference.
This guide covers what London families have typically found useful, including NHS and private routes, the EHCP process, and support organisations.
Getting a Diagnosis in London
NHS CAMHS or Community Paediatrics � London Boroughs
The NHS pathway begins with your GP, who refers to either CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) or community paediatrics depending on your borough. NHS assessments are free but waiting times in London currently range from 18 months to 3 years in most boroughs. You can ask your GP for the current waiting time in your specific area. Some boroughs have specialist autism assessment teams with slightly shorter waits for under-5s.
Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) � Neurodisability
GOSH accepts referrals for complex neurodevelopmental presentations � typically children with significant co-occurring conditions alongside autism. A tertiary referral from a paediatrician is required. Not the standard pathway for most families, but important for children whose presentations are complex or whose diagnosis remains unclear after a primary assessment.
Private Autism Assessment � London
Private assessment in London typically costs �1,500��3,500 and can be arranged within 2�8 weeks. Reputable private providers include specialist child neuropsychology practices and the private arms of major hospital networks. Private diagnoses are generally accepted by London schools and for the EHCP process. Ensure the assessing clinician uses standardised tools (ADOS-2) and produces a full written report.
Therapy, Support, and Key Organisations
National Autistic Society (NAS)
The NAS operates services across London including specialist schools (Robert Ogden School has a London presence), advocacy support, and a helpline (0808 800 4104 � free). Their SENDIASS support and parent resources are widely respected. The NAS also runs local groups for autistic adults and families in many London boroughs.
NHS Speech Therapy, OT � London Boroughs
NHS SALT (Speech and Language Therapy) and OT are available through community health teams. Access is usually through a paediatric referral. Like the diagnostic pathway, waiting times vary by borough. If NHS waiting times are long, ask your SENCO about school-based provision as an interim measure.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for Children
DLA for children is a non-means-tested benefit � it does not matter what you earn. Children with autism who have care needs can qualify regardless of whether they have a diagnosis (though a diagnosis strengthens the application). Currently worth �28.70��184.30 per week. Apply at GOV.UK. SENDIASS advisers can help with the application.
School Support in London
London schools are covered by the SEND Code of Practice (England). Key steps for families:
- SENCO: Every school must have a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). This is your primary contact for discussing your child's support needs. Request a meeting before the school year starts.
- EHCP: If your child needs support beyond what the school can provide from its own resources, request an EHCP assessment from your London borough's local authority. You do not need a diagnosis to request this � documented need is sufficient. The authority must respond within 6 weeks.
- SENDIASS: Your borough's SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service) provides free, impartial advice. Find yours at the IPSEA website. They can attend EHCP meetings with you.
- Specialist schools: London has a range of specialist provision including NAS schools, specialist communication schools, and maintained special schools. Discuss placement options with your local authority if mainstream inclusion is not working.
While You Are Waiting for an Appointment
The NHS waiting list reality in London means that most families are managing a significant gap between suspicion and formal assessment. The EHCP process is worth starting now � the assessment request triggers a legal process that does not require a completed diagnosis.
For home support, the Hanen More Than Words programme (designed for parents of autistic children under 5) is available in London through NHS SALT teams and private providers. Nesto's home activities provide structured daily activities while you wait.
Some families in London boroughs with particularly long waits have successfully used a private diagnosis to expedite the EHCP process and school support. The cost of a private assessment (�1,500��3,000) can be worth it if it means your child accesses school support 1�2 years earlier. SENDIASS can advise on whether this is likely to help in your specific borough.
Support Your Child at Home While You Wait
Nesto provides structured home activities, progress tracking, and screening tools for parents � available in 19 languages. Free for all families.
Explore Home ActivitiesAbout This Page
This page provides a general guide for families in London seeking autism support. NHS pathways and DLA eligibility change � always verify current information at NHS.uk and GOV.UK. For legal rights, see our autism legal rights guide. SENDIASS contact details for your specific London borough are available at the IPSEA website.
If you are concerned about your child's development, speak to your GP about a referral.