Urgent action needed to tackle growing waits for ADHD and autism services

Responding to a new Nuffield Trust report on autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) waiting times, Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive at NHS Providers said: 

"Trust leaders are deeply concerned that children and adults with ADHD and autism are having to wait longer than ever to get diagnosed or for the care they may need.

"The impact of these waits on children and young people is of particular concern. Too many young people and their families face long delays in accessing community health services that are vital to youngsters' wellbeing and development.

"Better investment in services is urgently needed so we can close the widening gap between demand and capacity to provide much needed care.

"NHS England's new ADHD taskforce is a promising step towards improving access to services and care, but this work needs to move quickly.

"National support, backed by the necessary resources, to deliver high-quality services more consistently across the country is critical. GPs – often the first port of call – must also be supported so they are better equipped to help people with ADHD and autism."