Autism

Autism, sometimes referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning the brain develops slightly differently to those without Autism. Autistic people may experience and interpret the world differently to others.

This video from Autistic Young Experts explains what autism is and how it might affect young people:

We want to make Camden a better borough for autistic people and their families and support networks. See our All-Age Autism Strategy which outlines our approach.

Watch this video from the Autism Education Trust. It explains what autism is and how autistic children and young people see the world:

Assessment and diagnosis

Autistic people are individual and differ from each other, but for a diagnosis they must share differences from non-autistic people in how they think, feel and communicate. If there are signs a child or young person may be autistic, they can be referred for an assessment by a professional e.g. SENCO, social worker.

The following services offer autism assessments in Camden:

• MOSAIC Child Development Team provide autism assessments for children from birth to 5 years old
• Social Communication Assessment Service (SCAS) provide autism assessments for children aged 6-18 years
• Royal Free CAMHS provide autism assessments for children aged 6 to 18 years

Advice and support

It can be challenging trying to find the right support for autistic young people, particularly if they are still awaiting an autism assessment. Autism is different for everyone, but there are services who can support with some of the challenges that autistic young people often experience.

• The Central and North West (CNWL) London NHS Autism Roadmap outlines the services and support available for children with an autism diagnosis, and those who may be waiting for an assessment
• the NHS Waiting Room provides information about Neurodevelopmental Support in Camden, listing the services who support young people with Autism and ADHD
• Autism and Learning Disabilities Team offer psychological therapies for autistic children and young people, and their families
• the ASD Keyworker Service provides enhanced support to autistic children and young people who have complex needs
• Ambitious About Autism Youth Network offer peer support and helpful webinars for autistic young people aged 16 to 25
• Centre 404 offer a wide range of support for autistic young people and their families
• The Autism Hub is a user-led support group for autistic adults

Support for Parents and Carers

• our Events for parents and carers page lists upcoming activities, including our ‘Making Sense of Autism’ training
• we offer a range of inclusive parenting classes, which are open to everyone
• our Camden Parent Carer Forum empowers carers of children with SEND through meetings and training workshops to share experiences and connect with others
• CNWL developed tips to support autistic young people for parents, carers, families and professionals