‘IT TAKES TIME’

Nikki Clark, clinical services manager for Specialist Children’s Nursing and Medical Services for Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Diagnosing autism is a complex and difficult process, which typically takes between nine and 12 months.

“All children referred to our service are seen within 18 weeks. We follow national guidance to make sure a diagnosis is made by a team of healthcare professionals.

“We also liaise with each child’s GP, teachers, parents and carers and other professionals who may be involved, to make sure we have a complete picture.

“It’s a thorough process, which can take time, but it is essential to make sure we correctly diagnose the condition so we can then put in place the best support.”

Meanwhile, GPs or schools could refer children to organisations such as the Early Help and Preventative Service, which works with families and children.

Dave Holman, head of Mental Health and Children’s Commissioning for the West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We are unable to comment on an individual case through the media but would suggest that Mrs Parnham contacts us directly so that we can fully investigate her son’s waiting times.”