The Adult Autism Service provides support to adults (18+) with suspected or diagnosed autism living in Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

It is estimated that around one percent of the adult population are autistic. Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Seen as a developmental condition, characterised by impairments in social interaction, social imagination, and communication. 

Frequently, autistic people see, hear and experience the world in a different way from the majority of the population. 

The social model of disability emphasises the autism is not an illness or disease and cannot be 'cured'. Indeed the idea of a cure is deeply resented by many autistic people. With the right support and accommodations, all can live a fulfilling life. 

We are all different. Some differences are easy to see. Autism can be difficult to see. the film on the right explains why. Take a look.

What we offer

We follow a hub and spoke model of service spread across the NELFT boroughs. If you, or someone you care for, are referred to our services, we can offer:  

• Assessment and diagnosis, if you are referred to us by your GP.   
• Support to mental health professionals working with you.  
• Post-diagnostic support, including psychoeducation, advice regarding employment and benefits support, problem-solving and signposting once our post-diagnostic service commences and liaison with other support agencies, if need be.
• Pre-diagnostic support for clients who are on our waiting list to signpost for help while waiting for an assessment.

Our Team

The team consists of a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologists, Assistant Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, and Sensory Integration Specialists who will be involved as per the clients need.

Appointments 

Appointments for autism assessments can occur in multiple sessions, with each session lasting approximately 1-3 hours. An initial appointment will be arranged with you, which is then followed by appointments with your family member (and potentially other health services and external organisations such as employers) to develop a developmental history. Contact by video-call can also be arranged if it is difficult to visit us in person.

An assessment consists of:

• An interview
• An observation of communication and interactions skills
• An analysis of information collected from family

Post assessment

Following the assessment, you will have an appointment with your clinician who will provide formal feedback and a written report and will consider referrals for appropriate post diagnostic intervention and support.

Referrals

Referrals can be made by GPs (external) and other mental health professionals (internal to NELFT).