Learning Disability - Diagnosis

[DaisyDashchund]

My son is 11 and has just transitioned from Junior to Senior School with an EHCP. It has become very apparent after just half a term that his needs are actually much greater than originally realised and he would be better suited to a specialist setting. So we have amended his EHCP and are now awaiting specialist schools in our area to confirm they can meet his needs and if they have a place. For a child who really struggles with transition, this is not something we would have wished to do again so soon and feel it would have been much easier if we had been aware before naming a mainstream school for secondary.

He is on the pathway for ADHD with CAMHS, as well as having been diagnosed with Dyslexia when he was 7. As part of his ADHD assessment, at their behest, CAMHS did a cognitive assessment which shows a possible learning disability, however, this is not something they diagnose.

My question is in the 5 years he was at his independent junior school, knowing his academic achievement was not as it should be, should they have considered a learning disability as a possibility, as well as ADHD; and therefore mentioned to me as the parent that as well as speaking to CAMHS regarding the ADHD, that I should also speak to my GP about a referral to paediatrics regarding a possible learning disability?

[Annabellelily Community friend]

Hi there, I’m sorry to hear it seems certain things must have slipped through the cracks regarding your son’s needs. It’s certainly frustrating, especially looking back, as it can lead to these kinds of situations where there needs to be more and more transitions for your child who’s already struggling. You're doing an incredible job advocating for your son's best interests.

Reaching out to Mencap’s Learning Disability Helpline at 0808 808 1111 or their email [e-mail] could also be helpful as you navigate this, as they’ll have specific information about referrals, any assessments etc.

Wishing you and your son the best of luck