While a formal diagnosis can provide a clearer understanding of certain patterns of behaviour, it is important to know that it is not necessary in order to access many forms of support, including additional support within school.
Every child and young person is entitled to have a named person, in line with the Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) framework. If your child is in school, we would advise you to speak with the head teacher or guidance teacher who can use the GIRFEC framework and arrange a Team Around the Child/Child Plan meeting. This is where the people and professionals supporting your child, in conjunction with your child, can make a plan on how best to support them based on their needs rather than a diagnosis.
Some families tell us that they are concerned about the support that is being given in school and think that a CAMHS assessment will potentially impact on the level of this support. We would like to reassure you that a child’s right to additional support in education is based on needs, not on diagnosis. ‘Enquire’ is an organisation that provides information and support to families to understand the rights of the child in this context. You can find out more at www.enquire.org.uk.
What can I do to support my child without a formal assessment and Diagnosis?
Support without a diagnosis in school
Supporting your child without diagnosis as a parent or carer?
A diagnosis can be helpful for some families, but it’s not the only way to understand and support your child. The best place to start is by focusing on your child’s individual strengths and challenges. Pay attention to what helps them thrive and what they find difficult in different situations. The people who know your child best—including you, their teachers, and other caregivers—are in the best position to recognise what they need.
2. How do I understand my child’s unique profile?
Every child has a mix of strengths and challenges. Observing how they respond to different environments, tasks, and social situations can give you insight into their needs. You might notice patterns, such as:
• When they are most comfortable and engaged.
• What kinds of tasks or situations cause frustration or anxiety.
• Whether they benefit from extra structure, movement breaks, or quiet spaces.
We have resources on our website to help you explore and map out your child’s individual profile.
2. How do I understand my child’s unique profile?
Every child has a mix of strengths and challenges. Observing how they respond to different environments, tasks, and social situations can give you insight into their needs. You might notice patterns, such as:
• When they are most comfortable and engaged.
• What kinds of tasks or situations cause frustration or anxiety.
• Whether they benefit from extra structure, movement breaks, or quiet spaces.
We have resources on our website to help you explore and map out your child’s individual profile.
Where can I find resources to help me?
We have a range of resources on our website here and on our ND Parent Portal (www. nhstaysidecamhs.co.uk) to guide you in understanding your child’s strengths and needs, as well as practical tools to support them at home and in school. These include checklists, strategy guides, and information on different ways to approach support—whether or not a diagnosis is in place.
Understanding and supporting your child is an ongoing process, and no one knows them better than you do.
Understanding and supporting your child is an ongoing process, and no one knows them better than you do.