Needs first. Plain English. Trauma aware.
Right to Choose (NHS autism/ADHD assessment)
⚠️ Basic guide only — MAJOR GAPS FLAGGED | Last updated: January 2026
This page provides general guidance. It does NOT include:
This page provides general guidance. It does NOT include:
- Current provider list (changes frequently)
- Up-to-date wait times (varies by provider)
- Regional variations (ICB differences)
- Detailed troubleshooting (rejections, GP refusal)
Critical point
Assessment is one track. Support is another track. Always run both. Don't wait for diagnosis to request school support.
Assessment is one track. Support is another track. Always run both. Don't wait for diagnosis to request school support.
Quick start
- Write 3–5 examples: needs + measurable impact (home and school)
- Choose: Autism, ADHD, or both
- Research current RTC providers (check NHS/ICB websites)
- Use GP script and ask for written confirmation
- Request school support now in parallel
Before you start
Check your local ICB website for RTC information. Some ICBs have restrictions or preferred providers.
Check your local ICB website for RTC information. Some ICBs have restrictions or preferred providers.
GP scripts
Short script (phone)
Hello, I'm requesting an autism/ADHD assessment referral using NHS Right to Choose.
I'm asking for an appointment and for the referral to be processed.
Needs are significantly impacting daily life and education. Please note this request.
Full script (email/patient access)
Dear [GP name],
I am requesting an autism/ADHD assessment referral under NHS Right to Choose. Needs are causing significant measurable impact at home and in education.
Examples:
— [example 1: what + impact + frequency]
— [example 2: what + impact + frequency]
— [example 3: what + impact + frequency]
I would like to use NHS Right to Choose [if you have provider preference, name it here].
Please confirm in writing:
Kind regards,
[Your name]
I am requesting an autism/ADHD assessment referral under NHS Right to Choose. Needs are causing significant measurable impact at home and in education.
Examples:
— [example 1: what + impact + frequency]
— [example 2: what + impact + frequency]
— [example 3: what + impact + frequency]
I would like to use NHS Right to Choose [if you have provider preference, name it here].
Please confirm in writing:
- Referral has been started
- Which provider
- Reference number
Kind regards,
[Your name]
What if GP refuses?
Request written confirmation of refusal and reasons. Escalate to practice manager or make formal complaint. Contact your ICB for RTC guidance.
Request written confirmation of refusal and reasons. Escalate to practice manager or make formal complaint. Contact your ICB for RTC guidance.
Realistic timeline
⚠️ Timescales vary hugely
Wait times depend on provider, location, demand. These are general guidelines — actual times may be much longer.
Wait times depend on provider, location, demand. These are general guidelines — actual times may be much longer.
1 Request made
Send GP message with evidence. Request written confirmation: referral started, which provider, reference number.
2 Chase if no response
If no response within 7–14 days, chase surgery. Get provider name and reference number.
3 Provider contact
Expect forms/questionnaires. Timeline varies. Keep copies of everything. Note submission dates.
4 Appointments
Format varies by provider. Use waiting time to secure school support now — don't wait for diagnosis.
Critical reminder
Even if RTC goes smoothly, assessment takes time. School support should start based on current needs, not wait for diagnosis.
Even if RTC goes smoothly, assessment takes time. School support should start based on current needs, not wait for diagnosis.
What this page doesn't cover (yet)
Missing: Provider list
Providers change frequently. Check NHS RTC website and your ICB website for current approved providers.
Providers change frequently. Check NHS RTC website and your ICB website for current approved providers.
Missing: Wait times
Vary hugely and change constantly. Contact providers directly for current wait times.
Vary hugely and change constantly. Contact providers directly for current wait times.
Missing: Regional info
Some ICBs have restrictions. Check your local ICB website.
Some ICBs have restrictions. Check your local ICB website.
Missing: Troubleshooting
GP refuses, provider rejects, referral lost? Coming in future update.
GP refuses, provider rejects, referral lost? Coming in future update.
Official NHS resources