Child Autism Support
If you are concerned about your child’s development or your child has been diagnosed with autism, there are a range of local services in Newham that can provide assessment, advice and ongoing family support. You do not need to wait until after a diagnosis to access many forms of support. Families, schools, and healthcare professionals can work together to ensure children receive the help they need as early as possible.
Assessment & Diagnosis (CHAND)
CHAND (Children with Autism in Newham Diagnosis Service) provides autism assessments for children and young people aged 2–18 years who are registered with a Newham GP. The multidisciplinary team includes paediatricians, psychologists, speech and language therapists, nurses and education professionals who work together to understand your child’s strengths and needs.
Find out more:
🔗CHAND
Speech & Language Therapy
Speech and Language Therapy supports children who have difficulties with:
- Speech and language development
- Understanding and using language
- Social communication
- Interaction and play skills
- Communication linked to autism and other developmental conditions
Early intervention can make a significant difference in helping children communicate effectively at home, school and within their community.
Learn more:
🔗 Speech & Language Therapy Early Years
Mencap – Support for Families
Mencap provides practical information, guidance and support for families of children and young people with learning disabilities and autism, including:
- Advice for parents and carers
- Education and SEND guidance
- Benefits and financial support
- Rights and advocacy
- Family resources
Visit Mencap:
🔗 Mencap Newham
Newham Family Hub
Newham Family Hubs offer local support for families from pregnancy through childhood and adolescence, including:
- Parenting programmes
- Child development advice
- Family support services
- Health and wellbeing information
- SEND and early years services
- Local activities and groups
Find your local Family Hub:
🔗Family Hubs
Newham Autism Resource Hub
The Newham Autism Resource Hub brings together trusted information and resources for families before and after an autism diagnosis, including:
- Understanding autism
- Behaviour support
- Sleep advice
- Communication strategies
- EHCP information
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Parent workshops
- Local support services
- Useful organisations and online resources
The hub has been developed by CHAND and Newham CAMHS to help families access reliable support in one place. (East London NHS Foundation Trust)
Visit the Resource Hub:
🔗Resource Hub Link
Need More Support?
If you have concerns about your child’s development, speak with your:
- Health Visitor
- Nursery or School SENCO
- School staff
- Healthcare professional
They can discuss your concerns and, where appropriate, refer your child to the most suitable support service. Early support is available even while waiting for an assessment.
