If you’re looking for a private autism assessment in Northumberland, you’ll find a growing number of providers, and a bewildering range of prices, processes and quality levels. This guide is designed to help you navigate the options and make an informed decision for your family.
Why are families in Northumberland seeking private assessments?
NHS autism assessment waiting lists in Northumberland and the wider North East have grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Current waiting times for children’s autism assessments via Northumberland NHS regularly exceed 18–24 months from referral to assessment, and some families wait considerably longer.
For many families, waiting that long is not a realistic option. A child who is struggling at school, whose teachers are raising concerns, who is clearly in distress, who needs an EHCP, that child needs answers and support now, not in two years’ time.
You can be on the NHS list and seek a private assessment simultaneously
Getting a private assessment doesn’t mean giving up your NHS referral. You can keep your NHS referral active while going through a private assessment, the two processes are entirely independent.
What does a quality private autism assessment include?
Not all private assessments are equal. A quality autism assessment for children should include:
- A thorough developmental history interview with parents and carers
- A structured observation session using standardised diagnostic tools (ADOS-2 is the gold standard)
- Use of the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised) or equivalent structured parent interview
- School observation (or a school report from NICE-recommended assessment tools where observation isn’t possible)
- A multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussion before reaching a conclusion
- A detailed written report in line with NICE guidance
- A feedback session to go through findings before you receive the written report
- Post-assessment support, not just a report and goodbye
Be cautious of assessments that are completed in a single session, use only a questionnaire, or don’t include school input. A diagnosis is a significant clinical decision that requires proper evidence.
ADOS-2, what is it?
The ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition) is the gold-standard observational tool for autism assessment. It involves a series of structured activities that create opportunities to observe communication, social interaction and imaginative play. Any quality autism assessment should include it.
How much does a private autism assessment cost in Northumberland?
Prices for private autism assessments in the North East vary. At Speech Stuff, our full assessment costs £1,975, which includes the initial screening appointment (£95). We also offer installment plans to spread the cost.
Be cautious of assessments priced significantly lower than this, a thorough, NICE-compliant, MDT assessment involves multiple clinical hours and cannot be done cheaply without compromising quality. An inadequate assessment that doesn’t meet professional standards may not be accepted by schools, local authorities or the NHS.
Some private health insurance policies cover autism assessments. It’s worth checking your policy, specifically whether it covers neurodevelopmental assessments and whether the provider needs to be on an approved list.
Will a private assessment be accepted in Northumberland?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases. Northumberland County Council, local schools and NHS teams are required to consider all relevant professional evidence, including privately commissioned assessments. Our reports are written in line with NICE guidance and are accepted for EHCP applications, Annual Reviews and school SEND processes.
Occasionally, an NHS team will want to conduct their own assessment regardless of a private report. This is more common when the private report doesn’t follow NICE guidelines or when the clinical quality is questioned. A high-quality private assessment from a RCSLT and HCPC-registered clinician is very rarely challenged.
How to choose the right provider
When researching private autism assessment providers in Northumberland, look for:
- RCSLT and HCPC registration for any SLTs involved
- Use of ADOS-2 and ADI-R (or equivalent gold-standard tools)
- A multidisciplinary team approach (not a single clinician making all decisions)
- A clear assessment process with school observation included
- EHCP-ready reporting as standard
- Post-assessment support, ongoing therapy available if needed
- Transparency about fees with no hidden charges
- Google reviews from families who have used the service
Be wary of providers who can see you ‘very quickly’ and cheaply, a thorough assessment takes time to organise, deliver and write up. If the timeline seems implausibly fast, the assessment may be cutting corners.
Why families choose Speech Stuff
Speech Stuff is the only private clinic in the North East that combines autism assessment, Speech and Language Therapy and sensory integration under one roof. For families in Northumberland, this means:
- No waiting list, we can usually begin within weeks of your first call
- A neuroaffirming, child-led approach throughout the assessment process
- SLT expertise built into the assessment, not bolted on
- Ongoing therapy can begin immediately after assessment, with no re-referral
- EHCP-ready reports accepted by Northumberland County Council
- Installment payment plans available
- Based at The Hive in Cramlington, centrally located for families across Northumberland
If you’re not sure whether Speech Stuff is the right choice for your family, book a free 20-minute call. We’ll answer your questions honestly, including about other providers if they might be a better fit for your child.