Mid-Ulster Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend has called for the Northern Health and Social Care Trust to do more for families with children awaiting diagnosis for Autistic Spectrum Disorder, after it was revealed to her by the Health Minister that 105 children had been waiting more than 13 weeks for an assessment.

Mrs Overend, who is the Ulster Unionist Party spokesperson for Children and Young People, said:

“Having been contacted by parents with a child waiting months for a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I asked the Health Minister to detail the waiting times for an assessment across each of the Trust areas. The figures revealed are very concerning.

“Figures for the Northern Health and Social Trust show that, as of 31 August 2014, there were 105 children waiting more than 13 weeks for an assessment. That is simply not good enough. More often than not, these assessments will find that a child has quite complex needs. This is already clearly an anxious time for families, who are worried about their children and keen to have as much detailed information as possible about their condition. Having to wait months for appointments is only adding to this stress.

“An early diagnosis is essential in order to put in place the help and support that a child needs, both at home and at school. A diagnostic ASD assessment will give parents and teachers the information they need to determine the level of support that a child will require, ensuring they will not be at a disadvantage in the education system. It is vital that the Trust take action to reduce these waiting times so that children can receive the help that they need without delay.

"I have spoken to Jo-Anne Dobson, our Party`s Health spokesperson, and she will be raising this at Stormont`s Health Committee."