ICB board approves ‘needs-led’ neurodivergence care model
Plans to transform support for neurodivergent children and young people in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, reached a significant milestone in February with the formal approval of a new model of care by the ICB’s Board.
The proposed ‘needs-led’ model will focus on understanding and meeting children’s needs as they emerge, rather than waiting for a formal diagnostic assessment.
The needs-led model has already been adopted in neighbouring areas and reflects national best practice and guidance. The model was co-developed by the ICB and local Parent Carer Forums, working with families, people with lived experience of autism and ADHD, and system partners. It will be delivered by Sirona care & health in partnership with schools and health and care services.
To support the new approach a new multidisciplinary Neurodiversity Support Team for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire will be created, made up of health, care and education professionals who will provide targeted support and guidance to families and schools.
A new Neurodiversity Assessment Tool will also be introduced in local schools following a successful pilot during 2025. The tool, which was developed in Portsmouth and is now used in other areas of England, will provide detailed and early understanding of neurodivergent children’s needs and inform further targeted support and interventions.
Importantly, formal diagnostic assessments are not being removed and will continue to be provided for those who need them with the expectation that referrals will reduce as children’s needs are increasingly met at an earlier stage.
Over the coming months health services will contact families to explain the new model and how it will be delivered. This will include families of children and young people currently on the waiting list for a diagnostic assessment. Detailed briefing will also be provided to health, care and education professionals who will be involved in delivering the new model.