What Parents Can Do While Waiting for an NHS SEND Assessment

Being told your child faces a wait of months or years for an NHS assessment is exhausting. But a long wait does not mean nothing can happen in the meantime. Much of the support a child needs does not depend on having a diagnosis first — it depends on their needs being recognised. Here are the practical steps that tend to help most.

1. Ask school for support now (you do not need a diagnosis)

In England, schools can and should put help in place under SEN Support as soon as a need is identified — long before any assessment is complete. This works through a graduated approach of assess, plan, do and review. Speak to the SENCo (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) and ask what can be put in place this term. Our guide to getting SEND support without a diagnosis explains your rights in full.

2. Ask your GP about NHS Right to Choose

In England, for autism and ADHD, the NHS Right to Choose scheme can let you pick an approved provider for an NHS-funded assessment, often with a shorter wait. Some areas paused new Right to Choose bookings in early 2026, so check what applies locally first. See how Right to Choose works.

3. Keep a record of what you are seeing

Note examples of the difficulties your child is having at home and school, with dates. This makes assessments quicker when they come, and strengthens any request for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

4. Consider whether to go private

Some families choose a private assessment to get answers and a report sooner. Joining a private route does not remove you from the NHS list — see does joining the NHS waiting list stop you going private?. Our cost calculator shows realistic UK price ranges so you can weigh time against cost, and you can browse verified specialists when you are ready.

5. Get free, independent advice

Your local SENDIASS service (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service) offers free, impartial advice on assessments, school support, EHCPs and challenging delays. If you are heading towards an EHCP, our SEND tribunal guide explains the process.

For typical waits by service, see our NHS waiting times estimator.

Guidance here refers to the system in England; arrangements differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. For planning only; not legal or clinical advice.