For every parent who has gone on the journey with their child to obtain an autism diagnosis, for every parent who has spent hours writing and reading reports, fighting with authorities and professionals, jumping from one appointment to another, and collating folders of evidence, getting a diagnosis for your child is not easy, but once you are handed the piece of paper, we expect it to open doors and give us guidance on moving forward. 
Often it doesn’t. Often parents are left more lost and confused about where to turn, left with a piece of paper and no roadmap, no direction.
Here are five things every parent needs to know to move forward with their child’s autism diagnosis and continue on the path to supporting their child in being the best they can be.

1. Get a Special Needs Health Visitor

Every child is assigned a Health Visitor a few weeks after birth, but this support is only provided until the child starts school. Our children who need more support, have the opportunity to be assigned a special needs health visitor who they will have until the age of 12. Special Needs Health Visitors are able to share information about services, benefits, local support groups, and most importantly initiate any further referrals for your child’s needs.

2. Get your child an EHCP

If your child needs additional support due to their diagnosis, it is vital you get this formally documented. An Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) details your child’s requirements and the support they are to be provided. It is a legally binding document that will define the school which best meets their needs, allowing you to get the best education for your child. Schools can initiate an EHCP, alternatively speak to your Health Visitor, GP, or Pediatrician.

3. Apply for Benefits

There are a range of benefits for your child, some are financial whereas others are available to make your child’s life easier. One of the key benefits is DLA (disability living allowance), it is not means-tested and will not only provide a financial payment, but the benefit also provides a stepping stone to open further doors to support. To get a sample of the benefits available to children with an autism diagnosis click here.

4. Get on an Autism Parenting Course

Lonely is a word that every Special Needs parent has conveyed. The feeling of being the only one trying to parent in a world that is so new to you. The first task is to get yourself educated. Start to understand how you can help your child and the strategies and techniques to allow them to cope in this scary world. The National Autistic Society runs a parenting course called The Early Bird and is available across many locations in the UK. If places are not available, there are many local courses that will teach you what autism is and how to engage and interact with your child.

Learning is vital, but the second benefit of a course is the people you will meet. You will be able to find support from other parents going through the same journey as you. Nothing is better than someone else who understands.

5. Social Worker

Lastly, every parent needs a break, but this is even more important when you have a child who demands your constant support.
Support workers are able to arrange respite for Special Needs Parents. Speak to your GP or Health Visitor about getting assigned a Support Worker. Getting time to yourself, so that you can recharge, is vital to ensure you can be the best for your child.