Parental Perceptions of the Assessment of Autistic Spectrum Disorders in a Tier Three Service

Background:  Little is known about the satisfaction of the parents of children receiving child and adolescent mental health services in general, and autistic spectrum services in particular.
Method:  This audit examined parent and carer perceptions of the Autistic Spectrum Disorder assessments undertaken by the multi-agency team in a Tier Three CAMHS in Manchester. Forty families completed a brief questionnaire.
Results:  The majority of parents and carers reported satisfaction with the service (95%), although responses highlighted areas in both the assessment process and the service facilities that needed improvement.
Conclusions:  Useful information with both local and national applications can be gathered quickly in an easily replicated manner.