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Autism Anglia has this week relaunched its Assessment & Diagnosis Service for both autism and ADHD to give families across East Anglia a clinically robust, compassionate option at a time when NHS autism waits are at record levels. The latest NHS England publication reports that, as of September 2025, 227,813 people in England had an open referral for suspected autism and over 90% had waited longer than the 13‑week benchmark recommended by NICE.  

While the charity recognises that a private assessment isn’t for everyone, its refreshed service is designed to be empathetic, ethical and transparent for those who do wish to explore it. People can begin with free, online screening tests to consider whether an assessment may be right for them before spending any money, and every client starts with an Initial Consultation so an experienced clinician can review needs, answer questions and confirm whether a full assessment is appropriate. This safeguards against the risk of people being drawn towards online assessment packages that might not be personally suitable.  

Jade, who undertook an autism assessment with the charity at the age of 22 says that obtaining a diagnosis has been significant: “From a young age, I felt I had to hide my true self to fit in. I was always told, “Jade, be quiet,” or “Jade, you’re too much.” 

“…The Autism Anglia team was amazing. They explained everything well, helped my mum understand, and made me feel comfortable…My biggest fear was that they would say I wasn’t autistic. If that happened, why did I find life so challenging? 

“…The assessment included online forms, a face-to-face assessment, and another meeting which my parents came to. Two hours after my final appointment, I got a phone call—I was autistic. They said my full report would take six weeks, but I was pleasantly surprised when I got it in two weeks. 

“…Since getting the diagnosis I have a much better relationship with myself. Before my diagnosis, I struggled with anxiety and depression. Now, I understand my triggers and can be kinder to myself.” 

The service supports both children and adults, delivered by experienced clinicians at Autism Anglia’s Colchester centre. Assessments follow a gold‑standard, NICE‑aligned approach and use recognised tools such as ADOS‑2, DIVA-5 and ADI‑R, paired with a friendly, welcoming environment that prioritises clear communication and post‑assessment guidance.  

“This week’s NHS figures underline what individuals and families tell us every day: people are waiting far too long for clarity and support,” said Jenny Jackson, Diagnostic Service Manager at Autism Anglia. “We’ve relaunched our Assessment & Diagnosis Service to give our community a choice that is both clinically professional and genuinely welcoming – at the exact moment people need it most. Our approach starts with a free online screening test and a £199 initial consultation, which is credited against a full assessment, should one be appropriate, so nobody is misled or sold something that isn’t right for them.” 

Those wishing to take the first step can learn more and access the free screening tests, which cover both autism and ADHD, at diagnostics.autism-anglia.org.uk