Assessments

We provide a variety of specialist assessments for children, young people and families. These include assessments of need for adopted or looked after children, as well as a range of package or bespoke options for children with additional needs or require rehabilitation. Our assessments incorporate evidence-based clinical assessment and methods, sessions with both the child and the family and a comprehensive report with expert recommendations for the next steps.

Initial assessments will normally last between 2-4 6 hours and include discussions with parents, professionals e.g. school staff, therapists and social care and carers as part of the holistic process.

We use standardised and non-standardised assessments and clinical observations to establish a baseline of a child’s or young person's functional performance.

Family Assessments

Normally instigated by parents due to a specific area of concern. Usually a 2.5-hour assessment at school and clinic.

Initial Needs Assessments (INA)

Linked to litigation. This is usually between 4-6 hours and will review a child or young person at home, school and other community settings.

Expert Medico-Legal and SEN Tribunal Assessments

Working with Solicitors, Families and Local Educational Authority to ensure your child has the necessary support mechanisms to succeed, both at school , home and in the community.

Other assessments may include but are not limited to.

• Housing and Adaptation

• Wheelchair Access Vehicle

• Risk Management

• Specialist Equipment i.e. seating, wheelchairs,

Why do we assess children and young people?

Assessments are vital for us to get a complete picture of a child’s needs. We recommend that these take place in the child’s home, school and clinic to give us clear and accurate evidence of their functional performance in everyday living. It also helps us provide clinical reasoning as to why the child is performing like they are.

Families, schools and other agencies play an important role in the assessment process. Our priority is to understand the child’s or young person’s difficulties to enable us to develop realistic interventions and make recommendations to ensure they child achieves their maximum potential within the areas highlighted from the assessments.

What happens after assessment?

From the assessment, we are able to devise interventions tailored specifically to the individual – this may incorporate treatment therapy, programmes, advice, and strategies. Where necessary, we will also provide formal training to both families and professionals who will be supporting the child or young person on a daily basis.

We believe in a joined up, child-centred approach so we encourage nurseries, schools, health and social services to work together to enable the child or young person to develop and flourish to their best potential.