Children’s Neurodevelopmental Nursing Team – Halton

General introduction

The Neurodevelopmental Nursing Team works with children and young people aged 0-19 who have a diagnosis such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), global developmental delay (GDD), cerebral palsy, or learning disabilities and additional health needs.

We provide holistic assessments to understand what support each family would like to receive and to help identify the most appropriate care.

Clinics are delivered in different locations across Halton, and appointments can also take place in the child’s home when needed.

We work closely with families and partner services to support:

behavioural issues
positive parenting approaches
sleep difficulties
the diagnostic process for autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

A detailed assessment is completed to gather the information needed to plan the right care. We also offer support to families after a diagnosis, if required.

The team works alongside parents, carers and professionals to help develop a consistent approach to supporting the child or young person.

To build the skills and confidence of parents and community health staff, we offer training, workshops and development opportunities for anyone involved in the child or young person’s care.

The service works in a range of settings to provide support where it is most appropriate, helping families integrate strategies and techniques into everyday life.

We aim to build a strong partnership with families and professionals to help every child reach their full potential.

Parents are a valued part of the team. You hold unique insight into your child, and your contribution is central to the support we provide.

How to access this service

Referrals can be made by healthcare professionals, as well as education staff and other professionals, including social workers, inclusion workers and family support workers.

Referrals are accepted via a referral form completed by a professional and signed by both the professional and the parent / carer.

Once a referral is accepted, children and young people are allocated to the most appropriate service. If a referral is not suitable, we will signpost to the correct service wherever possible.

Parents and carers are then contacted and invited to arrange a convenient appointment.

Formal assessments

We carry out formal assessments with parents and carers, provide strategies, and offer follow‑up reviews where appropriate.

The service works in a range of settings to provide support where it is most effective, helping families integrate strategies and techniques into everyday life.

We aim to build a strong partnership with families and professionals to help each child reach their full potential.

Parents and carers are a valued part of the team. You hold unique insight into your child, and your contribution is central to the support we provide.

Useful information

What is challenging behaviour?

The most commonly used definition of challenging behaviour is:

Behaviour of such an intensity, frequency and duration that the physical safety of the person or others is likely to be placed in serious jeopardy, or behaviour that is likely to seriously limit the use of, or result in the person being denied access to ordinary community facilities. (Emerson 1995)

Autism and ADHD

Parenting support

This service offers behavioural and sleep advice for children and young people, providing proactive, practical strategies that families can use at home.

The aim is to prevent difficulties from developing in the family, school or community, and to help create supportive environments where children can thrive and reach their potential.