Using Digital Tools to Support Adult Autism Assessments
Research type
Research Study
Full title
How do service users experience digital tools within adult autism assessment services?
IRAS ID
365718
Contact name
Sophie Dunn
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Plymouth
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research is sponsored by the University of Plymouth, conducted by a trainee clinical psychologist, in collaboration with Plymouth Autism Spectrum Service (PASS), an NHS adult autism assessment service in the UK.
The qualitative study aims to understand service users’ experiences of using digital tools within adult autism assessment services, including their role, acceptability and impact.The PASS app was launched in January 2025 to support service users waiting for and after their autism assessment. It includes four tiers:
1. Open-access information on autism
2. Support while waiting
3. The assessment process
4. Post-diagnostic support
This digital platform changed slightly in May 2026, integrating into the service's website, rather than a separate web-based app.
All service users are directed to the digital platform when accessing the service. Professionals monitor engagement and provide reasonable adjustments.With a shift towards digital approaches in healthcare, technological advances can help people to access services. However, as a new and evolving area in clinical practice, limited research has asked adults about their experiences of using digital tools to support their autism assessment.
The research has the potential to improve autism services to benefit both staff and service users. It could make the autism assessment process more efficient, possibly leading to shorter appointments, reduced waiting times, and quicker results. It provides clinicians with information before face-to-face appointments, helping them to provide better care.
A sample of 12 participants will be recruited from PASS. People who have been assessed by the service in the last 12 months are eligible to participate, provided they have used the app and can make an informed choice about participating in the study.
Participants will have a 1-1.5 hour interview with the researcher, asking about their experience of the autism assessment and using the app. Participants can choose to complete their interview online or face to face, within the NHS building or other community space.
REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
26/WA/0172
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion