Type of service: Diagnostic services, Child Development Centres (CDC), Interventions and therapies, Family support and information services

Early assessment and intervention service for children living in Sheffield with autism and other significant communication disorders, up to the age of 4. We also offer information towards diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorders. We aim to work with parents towards developing an understanding of their child's developmental strengths and weaknesses and to provide information, training and support for parents of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Assessment procedure: Children are seen by a senior speech and language therapist and a teacher from the Autism Support Service, who arrange for more detailed observation and assessment of the child’s developmental progress and response to interventions through play sessions, nursery visits, etc. Parents are included in feedback and future planning. Where the child is thought to have ASD, the child will be offered a Social and Communication Disorders Assessment or a Multidisciplinary Assessment.

Follow up service: Some children may attend Footsteps group or have individual sessions at Ryegate. Parents can also access parent workshop sessions and follow up may be offered in medical clinics at Ryegate. Where there are concerns about the child’s behaviour or emotional wellbeing, a referral can be made to clinical psychology or parents can access the psychology drop-in service.

Aimed at: Child

Referral Sources: NHS Only

Specialisms: Exclusively autism specific