Understanding the Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) Pathway
The process for assessing Autism Assessment Pathways varies slightly across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton but typically begins with a referral from a professional working with your child, such as a GP, school, or health service. This referral may be to Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, or to partner agencies in the assessment process or, a Right To Choose agency.
The below link describes where Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is involved.
Understanding the Autism Spectrum Condition pathway :: Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Referrals for Neurodevelopmental Disorder Assessments
Please note some important changes to our services in Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton from 1st August 2026.
CAMHS offer assessment and treatment for young people with severe, complex, and enduring mental health needs. We understand the importance of assessments for neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), however unfortunately, we can no longer accept referrals for these assessments where the young person does not also have another significant mental health need that would require additional input from specialist CAMHS.
Families and referrers are always encouraged to contact us if they have concerns about the well-being or safety of the young person, however, our Single Point of Access teams will unfortunately not be able to offer any further advice on access to neurodevelopmental assessments beyond what is outlined below.
To access a neurodevelopmental assessment, you will need to speak to your GP to discuss your options, which are:
- Another NHS or Local Authority service in your area - This could be services such as Community Paediatrics, Educational Psychology or specific neurodevelopmental pathways in your area, if they are available and offer the assessment you need.
- A National NHS Right to Choose route – The National Right to Choose route means you can ask your GP to refer you to a different NHS provider for the assessment you need (as long as they offer that service).
A list of verified National Right to Choose providers can be found by visiting: https://blackcountry.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/health-services/patient-choice/right-choose-referrals-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-or-autism-spectrum-condition-asc.
- If you use a Right to Choose provider your assessment will be free of charge. You should check they follow NICE guidance (nationally recognised standards in healthcare), use a team of different professionals for the assessment (a multi-disciplinary team) and if appropriate (for conditions such as ADHD) the provider can support with prescribing medication.
- A private (paid for) assessment - If you use a private provider, you will need to pay for the assessment yourselves (there are some charities who can help with these costs). You should check the provider follows NICE guidance and what the arrangements will be for any continued treatment that may be needed. Any medications prescribed by private providers following this type of assessment will need to be funded privately also.
Please note: Families accessing ADHD assessments with either a National NHS Right to Choose route or a private (paid for) assessment need to be aware that treatment (such as medication prescribing) will not be able to be transferred back into our services unless the young person is in need of CAMHS treatment for their mental health and further assessments have been completed. Some GPs may agree to a shared care agreement with your private or National Right to Choose provider to continue prescribing medication, however, families should check their GP’s policy on these arrangements.
Neurodivergent Pathway Update for Wolverhampton and Sandwell
You can view our Frequently Asked Questions guides below:
Frequently Asked Questions - Parents and Carers ASC Referrals
Frequently Asked Questions - Young People ASC Referrals
Black Country CAMHS Autism Resource Guide
A downloadable version of the Black Country CAMHS Resource Guide for Autism can be found here: Black Country CAMHS Autism Resource Guide
Our comprehensive guide includes information on helpful organisations, the local offer, specialist health services, training resources and much more.
