Dr. Louise Higgins:

It is correct to say a child can access services even if they are waiting for an assessment of need, or if they are not. PDS made it very clear that we should be moving away from diagnosis-led treatment to treatment that is support and needs led. The reality, as Ms Lawlor was saying, is that there can be barriers when families are trying to get their children access to supports. The Senator mentioned the piece of paper. In the last year, the PSI published best practice guidelines around assessment. We would be very much of the opinion that the assessment is not just about the diagnosis. An assessment, done correctly, should really be a comprehensive picture of a child, outlining their areas of difference, difficulties and strengths but also being very clear about their support needs. We hear this as clinicians. Parents attach a value to that piece of paper and that diagnosis because it does help them access supports within the education system and financial supports. That can make a big difference for families. Does that answer the question?