What we do
The Neurodevelopmental Early Support Service (NESS) provides early, non-clinical support to families of children and young people (up to age 18) awaiting neurodevelopmental assessment or recently diagnosed with Autism and/or ADHD. Operating across Bradford, Calderdale, Leeds, Kirklees and Wakefield, the service responds to prolonged diagnostic waiting times and post-diagnostic adjustment needs that increase the risk of family distress, escalation of need and pressure on specialist and statutory services. The service delivers a consistent single point of access across West Yorkshire, offering structured triage and a graduated model of support aligned with Early Help principles, the SEND Code of Practice and NHS Waiting Well priorities. The Service focuses on strengthening parental confidence, reducing stress and anxiety, and supporting children and young people to remain engaged in education, community life
and universal services while awaiting assessment or adjusting to a new diagnosis.
Through timely engagement, practical guidance and clear system navigation, the
Service aims to prevent escalation to higher-cost statutory or clinical interventions. Referrals are accepted from professionals in CAMHS, SENDCo, Neurodevelopmental Assessment Teams and GP Practices. Please email for further details.
We can help with
- Advocating for children is at the heart of everything we do. We work to make sure children and young people with disabilities are included in community activities and decisions about themselves.
- If you are a parent/carer, find out more about Disability advocacy/participation
- Search for Disability advocacy/participation services
- We know looking after your family can be tough at times. We support parents, carers and families with guidance and activities so children and young people can feel safe, happy, healthy and hopeful.
- If you are a parent/carer, find out more about Family support
- Search for Family support services