How we assess
The clinical methodology, NICE guidance, standardised instruments, and quality controls that underpin every assessment we deliver.
Our assessment pathways
Each of our three core pathways is aligned to the relevant NICE guideline, with the same standardised instruments used across the NHS and other regulated providers.
Child & Young Person Autism Assessment
Ages 4–18
Standardised instruments
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Ed) (where appropriate)
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview — Revised) (where appropriate)
- Developmental history interview
- School/setting observations or reports where appropriate
Adult Autism Assessment
Ages 18+
Standardised instruments
- ADOS-2 (Module 4) (where appropriate)
- AAA (Adult Asperger Assessment) or equivalent comprehensive interview
- AQ-10 / RAADS-R as screening instruments
- Developmental history with informant where available
ADHD Assessment (all ages)
Children, young people and adults
Standardised instruments
- DIVA-5 (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults) for adult assessment
- Conners-3 / Conners CBRS for children and young people
- ASRS-v1.1 screener
- DSM-5 / ICD-11 diagnostic criteria applied
Who carries out your assessment
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the UK statutory regulator for a range of health and care professionals, including Practitioner Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech and Language Therapists. All clinicians are appropriately qualified and registered with their relevant professional body, with training and experience in autism and ADHD assessment.
Quality principles
Multidisciplinary, where it matters
All autism/ADHD assessments involve input from a multidisciplinary team, including a Clinical Psychologist and at least one other Allied Health Professional. Assessment outcomes are reviewed within a multidisciplinary panel, supporting a shared and well-considered clinical decision.
Written report standards
Every assessment produces a structured written report including: clinical history, instruments used and their results, diagnostic formulation against DSM-5 or ICD-11 criteria, areas of strength and need, recommendations, and a clear statement of differential considerations.
Onward referral and escalation
Where an assessment identifies needs outside the scope of diagnosis — such as risk, mental health concerns, medication, therapy, or possible co-occurring conditions — we will discuss this with you and consider appropriate next steps. This may include communication with your GP, signposting to NHS or specialist services, or directing you to appropriate support where needed.
Use of reports
Our reports are written in line with recognised clinical guidance, including NICE recommendations, and reflect a multidisciplinary approach to assessment. They are intended to support communication with services such as the NHS, education settings, employers, and other organisations. Clinicians sign their reports personally and remain accountable through their HCPC registration.
Where we sit in UK regulation
As a diagnostic-only service, we sit outside the scope of CQC registration under CQC’s own published guidance. We are accountable instead through the HCPC (clinicians), the ICO (data), our Cyber Essentials Plus certification (infrastructure), and our professional indemnity insurer (clinical conduct).
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