We know that many people have been waiting a long time for an assessment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We are sorry for the length of time that people have had to wait.

Over recent years, more people are being referred to our service than ever before. This means that our waiting lists are now much larger and are now difficult to manage safely and effectively. It also means that demand for our services is higher than the number of people we can see and treat, which means some people are waiting longer than they should. 

We are introducing a new process to review the needs of everyone waiting for an assessment. This will help us make sure that people with the greatest need are seen as soon as possible.

How are we doing this and what will happen next?

People who are on one of our autism or ADHD waiting lists will receive a questionnaire.

They will receive a link by text message or hard copy versions if needed. The questionnaire will ask about their current needs and circumstances. We will then review and prioritise our waiting lists based on patient needs and the level of support required. 

Why are we doing this?

Some people have been waiting for a long time, and their circumstances may have changed since they were originally referred.

The information people give us will help us:

•    Understand people’s current needs.
•    Prioritise those who need support most urgently.
•    Make sure our waiting lists are up to date.
•    Use our resources as fairly and effectively as possible.

Anyone who is already receiving active care and treatment from our mental health services will continue to receive that support and will not be included in this process. If this applies to you, you do not need to do anything while you wait for an assessment from us. The service is already aware of your referral and ongoing needs. 

What do I need to do? 

Please wait to receive a text message from the service. 

You do not need to contact the service if you have not yet received a text message straight away. Messages will be sent out in stages over the coming months starting from October.  

Due to the size of our waiting lists, it may take some time before you receive yours. 

When you receive the questionnaire, please complete and return it within four weeks.

We will send a reminder during this period if we have not received a response to the first message.

Your message will explain how to get help if you need support to complete it.
 

What happens if I do not respond?

If we do not receive a completed questionnaire within four weeks of the message being sent, we will close your referral, and you will be discharged from the service. 

It is therefore really important that you reply to the message within four weeks of receiving it. 

We understand that there may be situations where people need additional support or may have difficulty responding. If this applies to you, please contact us as soon as possible using the details provided in your message.

How will my information be used? 

We will keep the information you give us confidential and secure. 

In some circumstances, we may need to securely share limited information with other NHS organisations or providers delivering NHS-funded services. This is to help us maintain accurate waiting list information and support the planning and delivery of care. 

For more information about how CNTW uses and shares personal information, please refer to our Privacy Notice available on the Trust website.

Thank you 

We understand that waiting for assessment can be difficult and frustrating. 

Thank you for helping us with this review. Your response will help us provide care in the fairest and most effective way possible.