Social Communications Difficulties Service (including Autism)
As you may already be aware we are working closely with Wandsworth Council and St George’s hospital to bring down waiting times for autism assessment for 0-8 year olds in Wandsworth. There are challenges with waiting lists nationally for autism assessment, with significant shortages in staff who are experienced in carrying out assessments.
The path to assessment has now been redesigned to speed up processes – with additional investment and referrals coming straight to St George’s in future. We are also looking at increasing capacity at South West London St George’s Mental Health Trust, who assess children aged 8 to 18 years old.
NHS South West London and the Council are supporting St George's hospital to undertake a rapid review of those currently on the waiting list. The team at St George's hospital will contact parents and carers of the children currently on the waiting list.
Additional services which support children, families and carers waiting for assessments are already in place, with schools able to make referrals. This includes Roundabout Dramatherapy in schools, Mental Health Support Teams in Schools, Wandsworth Autism Advisory Service, The Well Centre, Place2Be, Journey of Hope Therapy Groups and Family Consultancy.
Letters have been sent out to all parents & carers of children on the waiting lists. If parents/carers think that their child is on the waiting list and have not received a letter, please email:
For more information on the Social Communication Difficulties Service (including Autism), referrals, information & advice and contact details please use the link below.
Social Communication Difficulties Service (including Autism)
(formerly known as the Emerging Needs Pathway until July 2025)
Please remember to advise the service of any change to your address or contact details during the assessment period by emailing: Paediatric.SCDAdmin@stgeorges.nhs.uk
