Autism Referral Hub

Please note, there has been a recent change to the autism referral process, and to the paperwork used. Referrals are now to be submitted using paperwork from the new referral pack and these are clearly identified by a code shown on the top of each form (ASC1, ASC2 etc) and also by the version number at the bottom of the page (currently 'pilot version 1.1 - UPDATED: Apr24').

Please note, any obsolete paperwork received after the 28th of February 2024 will be rejected and a resubmission will be required using the correct paperwork.

What's changed?

With the ever increasing demand for autism assessments, we felt it important to improve the paperwork we use for referrals to try to capture more relevant information from the outset. This will aid the triaging process and any future assessment. We also felt that it was important to capture parents' views and concerns from a home environment perspective.

Therefore, the referral form has now been divided in to multiple forms which make up the 'referral pack' and we have now introduced a specific parent questionnaire and a supplementary information form for other professionals working with the family who have key information which could aid the assessment (Family Support, Social Worker, Therapist etc). Each form has a specific purpose and is to be completed by a specific person so that we have a clearer understanding of who's views we are considering. We have tried to ensure the forms are clear in terms of what information we want and who should be completing this.

What next?

Firstly you will need to download the relevant forms from the referral pack using the links below, these can be completed by hand or electronically. Please ensure you are using the correct version (Pilot version Jan24) as previous versions of the referral form are now obsolete and will not be processed.

The person/agency initiating the request for assessment is responsible for collating all the relevant forms and documentation and submitting to the assessment team. This responsibility can be transferred between professionals if mutually agreed.

Please follow the guidance given in this section and also on each form to avoid unnecessary delay.

How to make a request for assessment

1: The relevant forms are to be downloaded from the referral pack by the professional co-ordinating (the 'referrer') the request for assessment using the links below.

2: All paperwork to be completed by the relevant parties as mentioned above.

3: The ‘referrer’ to collate the completed paperwork and ensure that all the required information is present and correct.

4: The ‘referrer’ then completes the submission form (found on ASC1) and submits all 4 forms (the ‘referral pack’) to Barnsley.ASDAT@nhs.net for consideration.

Autism Assessment Referral Pack

The core forms required are:

ASC1 | Request for assessment form
This form is to be completed by the professional initiating the request for assessment. This is a simple form which asks for the basic demographics of the family and an outline of your concerns and reason for requesting an assessment. This form also gives clear instruction on what needs to be done and by whom and also includes a pre-submission checklist to ensure the pack is completed correctly prior to submission.

ASC2 | Consent form
This form is to be read and signed by an adult providing consent for assessment for children under 16, or by the young person themselves if 16+. It is important that the appropriate consent is sought and that all parties understand the need for sharing of information during this process. This form must contain a written signature, electronic signatures are not acceptable.
ASC3 | Parent / Carer supporting information form
This form should be given to the family either electronically or in printed format for completion by an adult with parental responsibility or by a professional completing the form on their behalf. Where possible, parents should be encouraged to include the child's views. Once completed, this form should be returned to the referrer (the person coordinating the referral).
ASC4 | Supporting information from educational setting, day-care or childminder
A copy of this form should be given to the child's educational setting or childminder for completion. This could be in printed format, electronic or even a letter asking them to access the form directly online. Once completed, this form should be returned to the referrer (the person coordinating the referral).
If a child is not in education, please refer to form ASC00 for guidance.

Supplementary forms (if required)

ASC00 | Not in education or training
This form is to be used for children who are not in education or training. The form will guide you as to whether this is the correct form to use.

ASC99 | Supplementary information from supporting services
This form is for other professionals working with the family who want to contribute key information to the assessment process. This could be a family support worker, a social worker, a therapist etc. Once completed, this form should be returned to the referrer.

Important information

The assessment team will not consider partly submitted referral packs.

It is also not their responsibility to follow-up any outstanding information.

Packs with missing forms, forms that are incomplete, forms that are illegible, forms missing consent etc will be returned to the 'referrer'.