Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects how a child or young person focuses, behaves and controls their actions.
Children with ADHD may find it hard to:
- Pay attention
- Sit still
- Think before acting (impulsivity)
These behaviours usually appear before the age of 12 and can affect everyday life, including school, home life and friendships.
About the service
The Northern Trust Paediatric ADHD Assessment Service is a team of healthcare professionals who assess children and young people for ADHD.
The team follows national NICE guidelines to make sure assessments are thorough and consistent.
Children may be referred to the service if their behaviour:
- Suggests possible ADHD traits
- Is affecting their learning, home life or emotional wellbeing
A referral must be made by a healthcare professional.
What happens after referral?
Referral review
- All referrals are reviewed by the Children’s Referral Service
- An ADHD Nurse Specialist then looks in more detail to decide if an assessment is appropriate
Waiting list
- This is a non-urgent service
- Children are seen in date order (first referred, first seen)
The Assessment Process
Stage 1 – Initial Assessment
An ADHD Nurse Specialist carries out the first assessment.
Stage 2 – Paediatrician Appointment
If there is enough evidence to suggest ADHD:
- The child will be referred to a Paediatrician
- The doctor will complete a full medical assessment
- A decision will be made about whether the child meets the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis
After assessment
If a child is diagnosed with ADHD:
- They will continue to be supported by the ADHD service
- Treatment options will be discussed
- Medication may be considered if appropriate
How to contact us
Paediatric ADHD Assessment Service
Pinewood Offices, 101 Frys Road, Ballymena, BT43 7EN
- Telephone: 028 2531 7184
- Email: PaediatricADHDService@northerntrust.hscni.net
Children’s Referral Service
Floor 2,12 Dublin Road, Antrim, BT41 4EA
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm.
How to access our service
Referrals for a paediatric ADHD assessment must be made by a medical professional.
For professionals within the Northern Trust, referrals can be submitted directly through the Encompass system.
Alternatively, completed referral forms can be sent to the Children’s Referral Service for processing. Referrals can be submitted by email or by post using the address provided above.
Find the right support and information for your child
We have brought together guidance and resources to help you understand ADHD and access support. Use the links below to find practical advice and further information.