Cabinet to discuss investing in additional capacity to reduce waiting times for children and young people awaiting autism assessments

On Wednesday 7 January 2026, Cabinet members will be looking to approve a one-off £500,000 investment to expand capacity in Barnsley’s Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment Team (ASDAT), aiming to reduce waiting times for children and young people currently awaiting autism assessments.   

The proposal, which was developed in partnership with the Integrated Care Board (ICB), responds to a significant increase in demand and is designed to offer timely support for those on the waiting list who are at key educational transition points.   

Nationally, demand for autism assessments has grown exponentially over the past two decades, driven by greater awareness of the condition and population growth. Barnsley is experiencing similar pressures, with 1,689 children and young people on the waiting list as of August 2025.   

If approved, this additional funding will be used to increase assessment capacity within the ASDAT and to bring in additional specialist support through Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to support children currently on the waiting list.   

The proposed targeted approach would prioritise children and young people that are currently on a waiting list and moving from primary to secondary school, those preparing for GCSEs, and those transitioning to further education or independence. This strategy would also help to reduce the waiting list for other children and young people who are currently waiting for an assessment.   

The investment is expected to make a substantial difference to families across the borough, helping children access the support they need at crucial stages in their lives.   

Councillor Ashley Peace, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “We are committed to ensuring every child and young person in Barnsley receives the support they need when they need it.  

“By proposing to invest in additional assessment capacity, we are taking decisive action to reduce waiting times and provide timely help for families.   

“This reflects our ongoing dedication to improving outcomes for children with special educational needs and disabilities in Barnsley, and to supporting them through important transitions in their education and development.”   

Further details will be shared in the new year if the proposal gets approved at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 7 January 2026. We remain committed to working collaboratively with partners to ensure that every child and young person can access the right support at the right time.