Neurodiversity services in west Essex provide assessment, advice and support for neurodivergent people, including those with autism and ADHD. Support is available for children, young people and adults, whether or not they have a formal diagnosis.
Everyone develops, learns and experiences the world differently. Neurodiversity recognises and values these differences while ensuring people can access appropriate support when needed.
Understanding neurodiversity
Neurodiversity describes natural differences in how people think, learn and interact with the world. It includes autistic people and people with:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Other neurodevelopmental differences
Many neurodivergent people live full and independent lives. However, some people benefit from reasonable adjustments, specialist advice or additional support in education, work or daily life.
SEND services and the local offer
Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive support through education, health and social care services.
The SEND local offer explains what support is available for:
- Children and young people aged 0 to 25
- Parents and carers
- Education and early years providers
It includes information about:
- Education support and EHCPs
- Health and therapy services
- Social care support
- Transport
- Preparing for adulthood
Families living in Epping Forest, Harlow and Uttlesford can access via the Essex Local Offer
These services help families understand available support and access appropriate care.
Neurodevelopmental assessments
Assessment pathways may include autism and ADHD assessments. However, support should always focus on individual needs, not just diagnosis.
Some individuals and families choose assessment to:
- Better understand how someone thinks and learns
- Access specialist advice
- Inform support at school, work or home
- Guide reasonable adjustments
However, schools, colleges and employers must provide support based on need, even without a formal diagnosis.
Children and young people may be referred for autism or ADHD assessment through local pathways.
Referrals are usually made by:
- GPs
- Schools or colleges
- Health professionals, such as paediatricians
Waiting times vary depending on demand. However, schools and support services should continue to provide appropriate help while waiting.
Before requesting an assessment, it may help to discuss:
- Whether assessment is helpful at this stage
- What support is already in place
- What additional support is available
This helps families make informed decisions.
Adults who think they may be neurodivergent can speak to their GP about referral.
Adult pathways may include:
- Autism or ADHD assessment
- Advice and signposting
- Support at work or in education
Employers and education providers must make reasonable adjustments based on individual needs.
Assessment can provide useful information, but support should not depend solely on diagnosis.
Making an informed choice about assessment
Assessment can help some people understand their needs and access support. However, it is only one part of a wider support journey.
Because demand is high, it is important to consider:
- Potential benefits of assessment
- Waiting times
- Alternative support options
Health services provide clinical assessment, while education providers and employers remain responsible for providing appropriate support.
The aim is to ensure people receive support regardless of diagnosis status.
Getting support in west Essex
Support is available from NHS services, education providers and community organisations.
This may include:
- NHS community and mental health services
- SEND support services
- Voluntary and community organisations
- Peer and family support groups
If you are unsure where to start, you can:
- Speak to your GP or healthcare professional
- Contact SEND information and advice services
- Ask your school, college or early years provider
- Contact local voluntary organisations
These services can help you understand available pathways and support options.
Local support organisations in west Essex
Several organisations provide support for neurodivergent people and their families.
Parent and carer support
- Essex Family Forum – parent and carer voice network
Local charities and community groups
- ADHD UK
- SNAP Charity
- MyOTAS
- Families InFocus Essex
- Braintree POP
- Home-Start Essex
- Neurospicy Support Group
- SEND Sensation
- PACT For Autism
NHS and family hub services
These organisations provide advice, peer support and practical help.