# How long is the NHS autism waiting list, and what can I do while I wait?

> The latest waiting figures, why waits are long, and practical support you can get now.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/nhs-autism-waiting-list
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Waits are long across England. NHS England's statistics for June 2026 showed about 295,000 people with an open referral for suspected autism, and nearly 87% had been waiting at least 13 weeks. While you wait, your child can still get support at school without a diagnosis, you may be able to use Right to Choose, and simple routines at home can help now.

**Key takeaways**
- In June 2026, about **295,000** people had an open autism referral in England.
- Nearly **87%** had waited **at least 13 weeks**.
- **School support doesn't need a diagnosis.**
- **Right to Choose** may be an option in England.

## How long are the waits?

NHS England publishes autism waiting time statistics. The June 2026 figures showed **294,792** patients with an open referral for suspected autism, of whom **256,017 (86.8%)** had been waiting at least 13 weeks.[1] NICE recommends assessment should start within 3 months of referral.[2]

## What support can my child get while waiting?

- **At school:** schools must support children with special educational needs through SEN support, and you can request an EHC needs assessment, with or without a diagnosis.[3] See [What is an EHCP?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/what-is-an-ehcp)
- **Right to Choose (England):** you may be able to choose a different NHS-funded provider. See [What is Right to Choose?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/right-to-choose-autism)
- **Local services:** your council's Local Offer lists SEND support and services. See [What is the Local Offer?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/local-offer-send)

## What can I do at home now?

**Try:**
- A visual timetable for one hard part of the day
- A now-and-next board for transitions
- Keeping notes of what's hard and what helps
- Asking school what they notice

**Skip:**
- Waiting for a diagnosis before trying anything
- Paying for online tests that can't diagnose

**Keep your details up to date.** If you move or your contact details change, tell the service so you don't lose your place on the list.

**Contact your GP or 111 if....** your child's mental health, safety, eating or sleep is getting worse while you wait. Ask whether their referral can be
  reviewed as urgent.

Free printable: [Free printable: starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Ask the service for an estimated wait
- [ ] Talk to the school SENCO about SEN support
- [ ] Try one visual support at home

Read next: [How do I make a visual timetable?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/visual-timetable)

## Common questions

### Why are autism waiting lists so long?

Referrals have grown much faster than assessment capacity. NHS figures show open referrals rising year on year.

### Should I pay for a private assessment?

Some families do. Check the assessor follows NICE guidance and ask whether your local NHS services and school will accept the report.

### Can I get an EHCP without a diagnosis?

Yes. You can request an EHC needs assessment if your child may have special educational needs, with or without a diagnosis.

## Sources

1. NHS England Digital: Autism waiting time statistics. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/autism-statistics
2. NICE: Autism quality standard (QS51), statement 1. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs51/chapter/quality-statement-1-diagnostic-assessment-by-an-autism-team
3. GOV.UK: Children with special educational needs and disabilities, extra help. https://www.gov.uk/children-with-special-educational-needs/extra-SEN-help

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.