How long will the appointment last?
In general, appointments are no less than 2 hours but can be longer. We aim to make the assessment as comfortable as possible and encourage claimants to request comfort breaks whenever needed. If you think you may require frequent breaks, please let us know in advance so this can be factored into your appointment.

Can I bring someone into the appointment?
Some experts may allow a friend or family member to be present for a brief part of the appointment; however, this is entirely at the discretion of the assessing clinician. Please note that Dr Bashforth does not permit family members or friends to be present during the assessment.

In general, the clinical interview must be a true and independent reflection of your experiences. Supporters are welcome to accompany you to the venue and wait in the designated waiting area. In some cases, it may be possible to arrange a short period at the beginning or end of the appointment for them to contribute if this would be particularly beneficial.

If you are feeling especially anxious, a short telephone call may be arranged in advance to help you feel more at ease.

What will happen in the appointment?
The appointment will include both a clinical interview and the completion of questionnaires. Please note, this is not a treatment session. The assessing clinician will guide you through what is required at each stage.

We understand that discussing traumatic experiences can be difficult, and we are trained clinical psychologists with specific expertise in supporting individuals through such discussions.

At the end of the assessment, we may provide recommendations regarding future treatment, if appropriate.

What if I need to reschedule?
If you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment, please inform your solicitor as soon as possible so that alternative arrangements can be made.

Is there car parking available at the venue?
Car parking availability depends on the venue. Some venues have on-site parking, while others may have nearby public options. Please check your appointment letter or contact us if you need clarification.

What if I need disabled access?
Some venues may have limited disabled access or may require a ground-floor room to accommodate mobility needs. If you have any access requirements, please inform us as soon as possible so that we can allocate a suitable venue.