Wellbeing and support
Neurodiversity, autism and ADHD
Different minds. Practical support. Clear routes to advice and assessment for adults, children and families in Salford.
Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people think, learn, communicate and experience the world. Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental conditions. Every person is different, and being neurodivergent can bring both strengths and challenges.
Where would you like to start?
I am an adult
Find out what to note before contacting the practice and how an NHS assessment referral may work.
Adult support and assessment →A child or young person
Speak to their school or college and find local SEND and neurodevelopmental support.
Support for children and families →Practical support now
You do not always need to wait for a diagnosis before asking for helpful adjustments and support.
Support while waiting →Could autism or ADHD affect me?
Autism
Autistic people may experience differences in social communication, sensory processing, routines and change, or have deeply focused interests. Some people mask their differences, so they may not be obvious to others.
Signs of autism in adults — NHS →ADHD
ADHD may affect attention, organisation, time management, activity levels, impulse control or emotional regulation. Difficulties are usually long-standing, began in childhood and affect more than one area of life.
ADHD symptoms — NHS →Online questionnaires can help you organise your thoughts, but they cannot diagnose autism or ADHD. Other health or life experiences can cause similar difficulties, so a full assessment is important.
Asking about an assessment
For adults
Contact the practice if traits are having a significant effect on daily life and you would like to discuss assessment. It can help to provide:
- examples from childhood and adult life;
- how they affect home, education, work, relationships or wellbeing;
- school reports or previous assessments, if available;
- information from someone who knows you well, if you are comfortable sharing this.
A clinician will consider your needs, other possible explanations and whether a referral to an appropriate NHS service is suitable. A referral does not guarantee a diagnosis.
For children and young people
Speak to the child’s nursery, school or college special educational needs coordinator (SENCO), as well as a GP or other health professional. Information about how the child manages in different settings is often needed for Salford’s neurodevelopmental pathway.
Support at home and in education should be based on need and does not always have to wait for a diagnosis.
Support while waiting — or without a diagnosis
Local and trusted support
Autism support in Salford
Salford City Council’s guide to local help, diagnosis routes and community organisations.
Visit Salford autism support →Greater Manchester Autism Consortium
Local information for autistic people, children, families and carers, including peer support.
Explore the Salford support hub →NHS information
Reliable information about autism, ADHD, assessment and support.
How to get an autism assessment →ADHD — NHS →
Speak to the practice
Use our secure Accurx online form to tell us what you are concerned about and how it is affecting everyday life. The form will help your request reach the right member of the team.
Contact Salford Medical Centre online