DAANA waiting times

We have seen a significant increase in referrals recently. This means people are having to wait longer than we would like for their appointment. Our staff are working extremely hard to see people as quickly as possible.

We believe in transparency and the information below might be helpful as an approximate guide to waiting times. However, please be aware that referrals are prioritised so you may be seen later than these figures suggest.

(Updated September 2024)

ADHD assessments

For new referrals, most of the people we are currently seeing were referred in July 2021.

For people who have been already been diagnosed and who are waiting for a medication review, most of the people we are currently seeing were referred in October 2022.

Autistic Spectrum assessments

Most people now having a routine assessment from the team were initially referred in October 2018.

While you wait

We are working hard to increase our ability to see more people more quickly. If you are waiting then there are organisations and online resources that may provide some support (please see the list below). If your health gets worse then please contact your GP.

Please do not call the service to find out when you will be seen. We are unable to say until you have been offered an appointment. If you want to check you are on the waiting list or check when you were referred then email us:

• For ADHD referrals it’s dpt.adhd@nhs.net
• For Autistic Spectrum referrals it’s dpn-tr.ASC@nhs.net

As our resources are limited, we are only able to prioritise referrals in very exceptional circumstances. All priority requests must be made by a GP or other health care professional. Thank you for your understanding.

Workplace and education adjustments

If you are waiting for a diagnostic assessment and you feel that you would benefit from reasonable adjustments at your place of work or study, you could discuss this with your employer or educator, as they may be able to assist you without needing a diagnosis. You could also show them your referral acceptance letter for DAANA.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

• If you are struggling to manage your distress safely please contact your GP.  
• You can also call the 24/7 Urgent Mental Health Helpline for crisis support on NHS 111 and select the mental health option or visit https://www.dpt.nhs.uk/i-need-help-now  for information about other support services.
• If you have harmed yourself severely or taken an overdose attend the A&E service nearest to you or call 999.
• You can self-refer to TALKWORKS which a free, confidential service offering Talking Therapies.
• You can also visit www.marbleslostandfound.co.uk to explore what else is available throughout Devon

Adult Social Care

If you have significant difficulties managing day-to-day tasks then you may be eligible for a Social Care Assessment. This assessment is needs led and does not require a diagnosis of autism. Adult Social Care also assess and look at the needs of carers.

Other Resources

Pinpoint is a directory of community services in Devon

Dimensions for autism offers a range of support, information and signposting for autistic adults in Devon.

The National Autistic Society is the UK’s leading autism charity and offers information about understanding autism, reasonable adjustments and accessing local information and support.