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Parents Information

Navigating Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis: What Comes Next?

Your child has received an autism diagnosis, and it’s completely normal to feel a wave of emotions—uncertainty, relief, worry, or even confusion. You may be wondering:

  • What should I do next?
  • What does this diagnosis mean for my child?
  • How will this impact our daily life?
  • What steps can I take to support my child?
  • Who can I talk to that will understand my feelings and experiences?
  • How will this affect their education and school life?
Take a deep breath—you’re not alone. There are many resources, communities, and support networks available to guide you through this journey.

Practical and Financial Support

Getting the right financial and practical support can make a big difference.

Autism Support Organisations and Online Communities

Private Support

Autism Assessments – Multi Disciplinary Team

At Ashley’s House, we understand that timely, accurate assessment can be life-changing. We offer access to private autism assessments tailored for girls ages ……, carried out by qualified professionals with expertise in neurodivergent presentations.

Whether you’re seeking clarity, support with an EHCP, or next steps in your daughter’s journey, our approach is sensitive, child-centred, and grounded in best practice.

Paediatrics Founder & Clinical Director of Autism Doctor

Dr Deepshikha Thakur MBBS MRCPCH MD

Autism Doctor | Private Autism Assessment | Spire Bushey Hospital, Heathbourne Road, Watford, Bushey, Hertfordshire, England, UK

Autism Support Organisations and Online Communities

AQA Unit Award Scheme at Ashley’s House

At Ashley’s House, we believe in celebrating every achievement no matter how big or small. That’s why we’re proud to be an approved centre for the AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS).

What is the AQA Unit Award Scheme?

The AQA Unit Award Scheme allows children and young people to receive formal recognition for small steps of learning and progress. It’s not a qualification, but it’s a brilliant way to build confidence, highlight strengths, and celebrate personal achievement in a meaningful and accessible way.

Each unit focuses on a clear skill or area of learning like life skills, emotional regulation, communication, creativity, or independence and is broken down into simple, achievable steps.

Why it works so well at Ashley’s House

  • Individualised: Every unit is tailored to meet the needs and interests of each girl
  • Strength-based: We focus on what they can do—not what they can’t
  • Recognised: Every completed unit is recorded and acknowledged by AQA with a certificate
  • Confidence-boosting: Receiving an official certificate is a proud moment—often for the first time!

What it might look like for your daughter

  • “Managing Personal Hygiene”
  • “Using Visual Schedules”
  • “Expressing Feelings Through Art”
  • “Participating in a Group Activity”

We work closely with each girl to help her achieve goals that are meaningful and relevant to her journey. Parents are kept informed and involved at every step.

Important to Know

  • Ashley’s House is an approved delivery centre, but all certificates are awarded by AQA.
  • UAS is not a formal qualification, but it’s a fantastic stepping stone for learning and life.
  • We only share certificate achievements with parental consent.

Want to Learn More?

You can read more about the AQA Unit Award Scheme on their official website:
AQA Unit Award Scheme – What It Is and How It Works

We’re proud to offer in-house Speech and Language Therapy as part of our holistic support for autistic girls. Our experienced therapist provides individualised guidance in areas such as communication, social interaction, and emotional expression—working alongside our wider team to ensure each participant’s voice is heard and supported.

This service is available to any young person attending Ashley’s House, and can be accessed on an as-needed basis to enhance their confidence, understanding, and relationships in everyday life.

Because every girl deserves the tools to express who she is—and the space to be understood.