Local position statements on PDA
Local authorities, NHS trusts and other bodies are increasingly producing and sharing information about PDA within local areas. This page contains links to such information.
Local position statements
Some local areas have found it helpful to state their position on the use of terminology around PDA.
Examples of formal position statements include:
Examples of PDA being acknowledged include:
- Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust – CAMHS
- Northamptonshire Heathcare NHS Foundation Trust
These position statements and acknowledgements of PDA clearly illustrate how it is possible for local authorities, and supporting organisations, to acknowledge and flag up the PDA profile in diagnosis reports, as a signpost to appropriate support, whilst still working within the guidelines of the DSM-5-TR and ICD-10 diagnostic manuals.
As has been the case with Alder Hey Children's Hospital, it is hoped that local authorities who do accept the validity of the PDA profile of autism, will invest in commissioning PDA specific training to improve outcomes for PDA individuals.
The PDA Society feels this is a very positive step in the right direction for greater understanding, awareness and acceptance of the PDA profile, and hope that both children and adult services in other local authorities will be encouraged to follow suit.
For further information on defining and diagnosing PDA please see:
- Evidence for use of PDA terminology
- What makes a good diagnostic assessment for a child with a PDA profile?
- Identifying & Assessing PDA (Practice Guidance)
- What is PDA?
- New Introduction to PDA webinar