Dr. Aoife O'Donohue:

The autism protocol has been in development in a co-design, co-development style. We have engaged with adults and children who have gone through the pathways to see areas of improvement. What we have also done through this protocol, which is in the final stages, is to have a consistent approach from our CAMHS, primary care and disability teams regarding what that assessment looks like. Significant emphasis, however, has also been placed on the need for timely intervention.

The assessment pathway is quite clear for some children who present, but for other children the assessment could be a prolonged or ongoing process across several different environments. We will, though, have a consistent approach depending on the child being supported. There will be a similar pathway in the CDNTs, CAMHS and primary care. Equally, in line with this protocol, there will be a single point of access. If a child has a requirement or referral need, it will go through one single point of referral so there is consistency across it. In line with this are the new governance structures concerning the six regions and the IHA areas. It is based on population health but it is not only about the assessment of these interventions. It is about looking at population health and overall supports that can be provided in line with the autism strategy we are developing, and engaging our partnerships in the community.