Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi, long and desperate first post, apologies in advance
My daughter (17) was diagnosed with autism middle of last year, I am in the process of being diagnosed myself.
She started college studying for A-levels in September and even though the college were fully aware of her autism and what she needs have done absolutely nothing to help her, I have a diary of events from the start, empty promises of help coming, pointless meetings, to the point where she has now dropped out because she knows there is no chance of her passing her AS Levels.
Senco weren't even aware she existed until I phoned them directly, and even after a meeting with them, the help that she desperately needs wasn't forthcoming.
So, things I have done. Approached Sendias, who just sent the code of conduct to both me and her.
Contacted IPSEA, and whilst useful, was completely overwhelming. Started to look at an EHC plan.
Where is the help ? Where do I go ? It just feels like 'Yes, she's got Autism, byeeeeee'.
I now have a child who is suicidal, she's gone from wanting to go to Uni to sitting in her room, talking about maybe home schooling, maybe an apprenticeship.
I'd appreciate some positivity and insight from others that have maybe been in this position, any suggestions welcome.
Hello, so sorry you are going through this. I share your frustration about the lack of support as I am in a similar situation with my son. He is 16, recently diagnosed and has been off school with burnout since October. We’ve had no support from the school Senco, sendias suggested applying for an EHCP ourselves, CAMHS are hopeless. I have found Dr Naomi Fisher (website with resources and webinars) really helpful in understanding what’s going on for my son. She also has a lot of resources on alternatives to conventional education. We have basically decided to give my son time to recover and then encourage self directed education in future. I hope things improve for your daughter soon
Hello NAS93185,
Thank you for sharing this with the community. I'm sorry to hear about the lack of support that your daughter has received and the negative impact this has on on her and yourself.
You may find the following page on our website useful:
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/diagnosis/post-diagnosis-support
Please visit our online advice and guidance which explains more about getting extra help in school, assessments, education plans, reviews and school transport.
Extra help at school in Wales
Extra help at school in Scotland
Extra help at school in Northern Ireland
Extra help at school in England
If you require further support, you may like to contact the following organisations:
Wales
Scotland
Northern Ireland
The Children’s Law Centre provides a free legal advice service and legal representation for children and young people.
The NI Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY) and their work is focused on making sure children and young people have access to their rights in their day-to-day lives, so they have the best opportunity to reach their full potential.
England
If you need support with an appeal against a decision about a child or young person’s educational needs, your local tribunal administration may also be able to help:
First-tier Tribunal (special educational needs and disability) in England
Special Educational Needs Tribunal for Wales
Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (Northern Ireland)
First Tier Tribunal for Scotland Health and Education Chamber
Please also visit our online advice and guidance which explains more about young autistic people making the transition from school, further or higher education to adult life.
Transitions Northern Ireland
Transitions Scotland
Transitions Wales
Transitions England
Making transition decisions
Transition tips
All the best,
ChloeMod