Assessment and treatment may be separate steps
An assessment can decide what kind of support is appropriate without treatment beginning immediately. Depending on the service, there may be another queue, referral or handover.
Get the next stage in writing
Ask what has been recommended, whether the next referral has actually been made, who owns it, how you will hear from them, what approximate information about waiting is available, and who you should contact if circumstances change.
Ask what happens in the meantime
Find out whether there are groups, self-help materials, medication reviews, primary-care support or other options that are appropriate while you wait. These vary by service.
If you hear nothing
Keep the date and name of the assessment and follow up with the service or referrer. Use the waiting-list planner to keep the trail in one place.
Put the things you do not want to forget into one private note before you go.
Open appointment prep →Trusted source
NHS / NHS England guidance ↗General information, not a diagnosis or personal treatment plan. Exact pathways and options vary. Reviewed 8 September 2026.