Wide-ranging needs and recommendations following holistic sleep assessment and intervention, for children and young people with neurodevelopmental and psychosocial vulnerabilities

Abstract

A service evaluation was conducted on a community-based, multidisciplinary sleep service for children and young people (CYP) with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and psychosocial vulnerabilities. Referrals for 200 children were received over an 11-month period from two inner-city boroughs. 85.5% (171) of CYP presented with at least one neurodevelopmental disorder; most commonly Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). 55% (111) CYP also experienced at least one external psychosocial complexity such as: suboptimal housing conditions, safeguarding concerns, medical conditions, and social support. Each referral received a one-hour paediatrician-led holistic sleep assessment. Following this, 136 families were referred for psychologist-led psychoeducational parent workshop, and follow-up telephone contacts to support implementation of behavioural interventions or 1:1 psychologist-led support. 95% of families who engaged with the psychoeducational workshop reported improvement in sleep problems, and 86% of families that engaged with 1:1 psychologist-led support reported improved sleep. We believe the model could be easily replicated, adapting for local needs where necessary.