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Local NHS Services (Free)
If you are registered with a GP in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland, you can access free autism assessment services through the NHS. These are provided by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT).
Click the links below for more information:
- For adults: Adult Autism Assessment
- For young people aged 12–18: 12–18 Autism Assessment
- For children aged 2-12: Under 12 Autism Assessment
These services are local and understand the support systems, education systems and resources in your area.
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Private Assessment (Paid)
You can choose to pay for a private autism assessment. These are offered by private health companies.
- You will need to pay a fee. Costs vary and can be high. Many people simply cannot afford to choose this option.
- Some people choose this route to avoid long waiting times.
- Not all NHS or education services will accept private assessments, especially if the report is not detailed enough.
You will need to research private providers yourself. We cannot recommend specific services.
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NHS-Funded ‘Right to Choose’ (RTC) Assessment
This is a free option through the NHS, but it works differently from local services.
- RTC allows you to choose an independent provider that works with your local NHS.
- These providers are paid by NHS Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
- You must ask your GP to refer you or your child.
To be eligible:
- Your GP must agree that an autism assessment is needed.
- The provider must be NHS-approved and led by a qualified mental health professional.
Click the links below to find out more information:
Important things to know about RTC:
- Most RTC providers are not based in LLR and may only offer video call assessments.
- You cannot be on both the local NHS and RTC waiting lists at the same time. If you switch to RTC, your local NHS referral will be closed.
- RTC assessments must meet national standards (NICE). Clinicians must be certified by their professional bodies (e.g. HCPC, Royal College of Psychiatrists).
- Some services may not accept RTC assessments as valid if the reports are not detailed enough.
- RTC providers may still have long waiting lists. It’s a good idea to contact them directly to ask about wait times.
- Local NHS services are familiar with your area and can refer or direct you to other services that suit your local support needs. RTC providers may not have this local knowledge.
Need Help Finding RTC Providers?
We cannot provide a list of RTC providers in LLR, as this can change. To find out more, contact the LLR Integrated Care Board:
- Online contact form: LLR ICB Contact
- Phone: 0116 295 3405 (Mon–Fri, 8:30am–4:00pm)
- Post:
NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland ICB
Room G30, Pen Lloyd Building
County Hall, Glenfield
Leicester, LE3 8TB
ICB website information about Autism assessments, including Right to Choose:
https://leicesterleicestershireandrutland.icb.nhs.uk/autism-and-adhd-assessments-and-support/
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right assessment route depends on your needs, preferences, and situation. Local NHS services are free and connected to local support. RTC is also free and offers more choice – but may involve more steps. Private assessments can be quicker but cost money and may not always be accepted by other services.
If you’re unsure, talk to your GP. You may need to help them understand your Right to Choose options.
