Published 20th May 2021
Having a children’s diagnosis for autism or learning disabilities can be life-changing for both parent and child, but accessing assessments is not always easy. Healthwatch Norfolk want to hear from parents who have tried to access autism or learning disabilities assessments for their child. The organisation is responsible for collecting public feedback and using it to influence change within Norfolk’s NHS system.
On their Conversation Hub, Healthwatch are asking parents and carers to share their experience and talk about the ongoing impact on their child’s development, as well as their own emotional wellbeing. Speaking about the importance of the work, Healthwatch Norfolk said: “Over the last few years, we have noticed a consistent stream of people telling us about the harsh realities of trying to get an assessment for their child.
“ASD and learning disabilities are both complex disorders that require specialist support; getting early help is so important as it often opens the doors for other treatments that could seriously benefit a child’s development.
“Trying to navigate the web of services out there also has an emotional toll on parents and carers, especially when so many seemingly struggling to arrange the support they need.”
So, whether your experience has been good, bad, or just as you expected, it is important to share it with Healthwatch. That way, public feedback can be used to shape future children’s services in Norfolk.
People will be able to leave their feedback until Sunday 6 June via the Healthwatch Norfolk Conversation Hub. But if you miss the deadline, you can still share your experience with the HWN engagement team by emailing enquiries@healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk or calling 01953 856029.