While You Wait — What to Do During the Assessment Period
NHS autism assessment waiting lists are often 2+ years. This page covers what you can do right now.
If your local NHS wait is years rather than months, you may be able to switch to a much shorter route. Compare NHS, Right to Choose and private assessment →
1. Keep an observation diary
Start documenting now. Date, what happened, what triggered it, how long it lasted, what helped. This becomes your evidence for the assessment AND for DLA and EHCP applications.
2. Request school support before diagnosis
Schools are required to identify and support children with SEND — a formal diagnosis is not required. Contact the school SENCO and ask for a meeting to discuss your concerns, any changes to classroom support, and documentation of the support they're providing. All of this builds an evidence trail.
3. Request an EHCP assessment before diagnosis
You do not need a diagnosis to request an EHCP assessment. If needs are significant, request one now. The assessment process takes 20 weeks — starting it now means it could complete before or alongside the autism assessment.
4. Apply for DLA before diagnosis
DLA is based on need, not diagnosis. If your child has significant care or supervision needs now, you can apply now. The diagnostic letter strengthens the application but is not required.
5. Look after yourself
A long wait is genuinely difficult. The uncertainty, the managing without answers, the advocacy work — it accumulates.
Appointment Preparation Sheet
Helps you prepare for both GP referral and assessment appointments.
Download PDFWhat to read next
Calm, ordered next steps. Pick the one closest to where you are right now.
Request an EHCP without a diagnosis
An EHCP assesses need, not label — you can apply now.
Apply for DLA today
You don't need a diagnosis to claim. Backdates from the call.
Build a sensory-safe home
Start regulating the environment now — small wins help.
Carer burnout
Waiting is its own kind of stress. This applies before diagnosis too.