Referral and assessment process

Our referral and assessment process aims to ensure that a consistent and qualitative approach is maintained at each stage of the transition and that information gathered is used to develop person centred support plans within every area of a person's life.

Once an enquiry is made, initial information is gathered verbally from someone who knows the individual well and a referral form is disseminated for completion. Following this the family members, service user and/or care managers are offered a guided tour by the manager of the facilities in which they are interested to be able to gain a full understanding of the facilities and what they have to offer.

Once the referral form has been received, arrangements are made by the manager of the service to complete an assessment on the individual and information gathering meetings are arranged to obtain all of the required information to be able to make an informed decision on the needs of the individual.

The assessment includes gathering information in the following areas:

• communication
• social imagination
• flexibility of thought
• transition
• sensory
• behaviour.

Once the assessment has been completed and all information has been gathered, a summary report is sent to the care manager outlining the proposed package of support with a cost proposal included.

In line with the National Autism Strategy, we offer all assessments  free of charge and are happy to complete these on individuals and then provide a summary of needs and proposed support. These assessments have been utilised successfully by many individuals to develop the diagnosis and so to be able to recommend support services.

In some cases, these assessments can be presented within the justice system to assist people to obtain support services.