Starting secondary school with autism: a guide for parents (2026)
The transition from primary to secondary school is one of the most significant challenges many autistic children face. A new building, multiple teachers, a complex
If you are based in Leeds and looking for a private autism assessment for your child or yourself, this guide covers everything you need: what to expect, how much to pay, how to find a quality provider, and what to do once you have a diagnosis.
In Leeds and West Yorkshire, the current NHS wait for a child autism assessment is typically two to four years. For many families, this is simply too long — particularly when a child is struggling at school, approaching a critical transition, or needs a diagnosis to access DLA or apply for an EHCP.
Private assessment in Leeds typically delivers results within four to eight weeks of booking.
Leeds and West Yorkshire offer good availability of private assessors at costs broadly in line with or below the national average. The city has a strong clinical psychology community.
| Assessment type | Typical cost | What is included |
| Basic assessment | £500–£800 | Single clinician, written report |
| Standard full assessment (recommended) | £900–£1,300 | Multi-clinician, ADOS-2, full report, feedback session |
| Comprehensive MDT assessment | £1,400–£2,000 | Full MDT team, detailed report with recommendations |
| Adult autism assessment | £600–£1,600 | Varies by provider — always ask for a full breakdown |
Providers in Bradford, Harrogate, Wakefield, and the wider West Yorkshire area are all practical options. Many Leeds-area providers offer remote or hybrid elements.
Quality varies between providers. Here are the questions to ask before booking with any assessor in or near Leeds:
Yes — a private autism diagnosis carries exactly the same legal weight as an NHS one, and is accepted by all local authorities, schools, and the DWP across the UK. Leeds City Council and all West Yorkshire local authorities are legally required to accept a valid private autism diagnosis for EHCP purposes.
The only requirement is that the assessment was carried out by a qualified and registered clinician using validated tools such as the ADOS-2.
Leeds City Council’s SEND Local Offer at leedslocaloffer.org.uk includes a directory of local support services and information on the Leeds EHCP process.
KIDS (kids.org.uk) provides disability support services including SEND information and navigation support for families in the Leeds area.
Provide a copy of the diagnostic report to your child’s SENCO immediately. Request a meeting to discuss what support the school can put in place. If current provision is insufficient, put your EHCP request in writing.
Call 0800 121 4600 to request the DLA1 Child form. Include the diagnostic report with your application. DLA for an autistic child can be worth £28.70–£184.30 per week depending on need.
Write to your local authority’s SEND team requesting a needs assessment under the Children and Families Act 2014. Include the diagnostic report. The local authority must respond within six weeks.
Your local Parent Carer Forum is an invaluable source of advice on local SEND provision and the EHCP process in your specific area. Find yours at nnpcf.org.uk.
How long does a private autism assessment take in Leeds?
From booking to receiving your written report, most Leeds providers complete the process in four to eight weeks. Some offer expedited timelines for an additional fee — useful if you have an urgent EHCP review or school placement decision.
Do I need a GP referral for a private autism assessment?
No. One of the key advantages of going private is that you can self-refer directly. You do not need to go through your GP, although it is worth informing them that an assessment is taking place.
Will a private autism diagnosis be accepted for an EHCP in my area?
Yes. All local authorities are legally required to accept a valid private autism diagnosis for EHCP needs assessment purposes. This applies across Leeds and West Yorkshire as it does everywhere in the UK.
Can adults get a private autism assessment?
Yes — adult autism assessment is available from private providers in and around Leeds. The process is similar to child assessment but adapted for adult presentation. NHS waits for adult assessment are often even longer than for children, making private assessment the realistic route for most adults.
Written by AI Mum editorial team
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