31/07/2026
NHS or private autism assessment… it’s a question many families are asking right now.
So, here’s a simple, no-nonsense breakdown of the differences:
Waiting times: NHS assessments are free, but waiting lists can be long. Private assessments can usually begin much sooner, sometimes within weeks.
Access: NHS assessments usually go through a GP or school referral, then onto a waiting list. Private assessments mean you can contact a clinic directly and book in yourself
Cost: NHS assessments mean no cost, whilst Private assessments are paid with the costs depending on the clinic.
Assessment: Both NHS and private routes should follow the same clinical standards and use recognised tools, meaning the assessment process itself is often very similar.
There’s no one “right” route, it’s about what works best for your child and your family.