The neurodevelopmental Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in Buckinghamshire has three main roles. They have a diagnostic pathway for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for 5-18 year olds that they run collaboratively with colleagues from Community Paediatrics in Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust.

They also initiate and monitor medication for young people over 11 with ADHD for as long as is needed until they turn 18.

The final aspect is supporting children and young people with ASD and or ADHD and mental health needs who need significantly adapted therapeutic and/or medication support because of their Neurodevelopmental condition.

Post diagnostic groups are offered to support families and they have recently developed a young person’s group to support children and young people with understanding what their ASD and/or ADHD diagnosis means to them.

These group sessions have been well received. One parent said: “The parents ASD course was very informative and well presented. I found it helpful to talk and share with other parents and hear their experiences.”

The neurodevelopmental team consists of a Consultant Psychiatrist & Clinical Lead, Service Lead, Operational Lead, Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist and Deputy Operational Lead, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, Assistant psychologist, Associate Specialist Psychiatrist, 3 Consultant Psychiatrists, 2 Senior Mental Health Practitioners and a Neurodevelopmental Practitioner.

Two paediatricians and a clinical psychologist and an assistant psychologist employed by Buckinghamshire Healthcare Trust offer support. They also have a key worker from Barnardos, who provides specialist buddy support for young people who need additional care for their neurodevelopmental needs.

Currently they are in the process of developing a group of non-medical prescribers who are striving to improve medication reviews to ensure that the children and young people receive the best possible care.

A parent who left a review said: “My child gives me good feedback about her care and thinks the treatment she is receiving is helping her.”

Rachel Bailey, operational lead, said: “The neurodevelopmental facility is a supportive and incredibly hard working team who want to do their very best for the children and young people we work and their families. I am proud to be a part of this caring service.

“We are also supported by a great admin team. Due to recent changes we would like to celebrate those who have recently moved to other roles as well as those who have just started their roles supporting the neuro clinicians within the last week.”

A further reviewer said: “Lovely supportive and sensitive service. I felt that my son was totally understood.” And a final reviewer said: “the care was attentive, balanced and targeted.”

Find out more about the service here.