NHS ADHD services face rising costs and under‑regulated private care

NHS England is projected to overspend on ADHD services by about £164m as demand grows and more care is being delivered through NHS-funded private providers; the health secretary has ordered a clinical review into diagnosis and services.

Hundreds of thousands of people in England are seeking ADHD assessment, and NHS England is struggling to meet demand. Analysis cited in the reporting projects ADHD spending will reach £314m by April 2026 against a budget of £150m, an estimated £164m overspend. More care is being provided through NHS-funded private assessments, and spending on private ADHD services rose from £16.3m in 2022-23 to £58m last year. Officials and campaigners have raised concerns about inconsistent assessment standards, gaps in oversight, and problems arranging long-term GP care after private diagnoses. Key findings: - NHS England’s ADHD spending is projected at about £314m by April 2026 versus a £150m annual budget, leaving an estimated £164m gap. - Spending on NHS-funded private ADHD services increased from £16.3m in 2022-23 to £58m last year. - Reporting flagged an under-regulated market, no single national framework for assessments, and variable clinic standards. - The health secretary, Wes Streeting, has ordered a clinical review into the diagnosis of mental health conditions, autism and ADHD. Summary: The reporting describes rising costs and a fragmented pathway that can leave patients without clear follow-up care after assessment. Wes Streeting has announced a clinical review of diagnosis and services; the timetable and next steps for that review are undetermined at this time.