A MOTHER coping alone with her anxiety-stricken, self-harming daughter was told she would have to join a six month waiting list for expert help.

The mum of three is attempting to manage her nine-year-old daughter's symptoms which include sitting under a blanket to block out her surroundings and scratching her skin until it bleeds.

But while she suspects the youngster may have an autistic spectrum disorder, the Barrow resident says an official diagnosis - which could unlock vital help and therapies for the youngster - could be 12 months away.

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The woman, who did not want to be named, said: "We're worried, frustrated but also so sad for her.

"We've managed her symptoms so far by sticking to routine and working family life around her but we're now at crisis point.

"She sits under a blanket to shut the world out, she's scratching her face and her arms and legs.

"We really need some help but we've been told there's a minimum 20 week wait."

The mother was referred to the area's Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service to see an expert practitioner earlier this year.

After waiting 12 weeks for an appointment, she was told an official assessment and diagnosis for autism was only available from the community paediatrician, based at the Atkinson Health Centre, in Barrow.

Speaking to the Evening Mail about her anguish for her little girl, the mum said: "We've always managed by sticking to a strict routine and keeping her in a bubble. 

"But we seem to have hit a brick wall.

"To see her suffering with such anxiety now is heartbreaking.

"There may be strategies out there that could help but we can't get access to them until we have an official diagnosis."

She added: "I'm sure I'm not the only one out there in this position."

A spokesman for Cumbria Partnership NHS Trust, which provides mental health services across the county, said the organisation had now issued an apology to the family.

"There are currently longer than normal waiting times for the multi-agency Autism Assessment Service in the south of the county and we are very sorry about the impact this is having on some families. 

"The issue has arisen because of a shortage of community paediatricians. We can reassure families that we are taking this very seriously and are looking at ways to resolve the situation as a matter of urgency."

The spokesman added: "We are looking into this case in particular and will work to support the family as a priority. 

"If any other families are concerned please contact our patient experience team and we will work with you to support you while we work to resolve the issue with waiting times."