NHS limiting ADHD assessments amid rising demand

Freedom of information responses show 22 of 42 integrated care boards set caps on ADHD assessments for 2025-26, and many did not inform GPs or patients.

More than half of England's 42 integrated care boards have set limits on how many people can be assessed for ADHD in 2025-26, according to freedom of information responses. The limits are reported as a cost-saving measure and many local boards did not inform GPs or patients about the caps. People awaiting assessment already faced long waits in many areas, and charities raised concerns about the potential effect on access. NHS England said people can still join waiting lists and that proposals aim to make services more consistent and sustainable. Key facts: - 22 of the NHS's 42 ICBs imposed limits on ADHD assessments for 2025-26, according to the FOI responses. - Of those 22 ICBs, 13 had not told GPs and 12 had not informed patients awaiting assessment. - NHS England said referrals can continue where clinically appropriate and that proposals are intended to improve consistency and fund effective pathways. - A government review ordered by the health secretary will examine reasons for the recent rise in diagnoses of ADHD, autism and mental illness. Summary: The reported limits mean some local NHS bodies are capping ADHD assessments while many patients and GPs were not given notice. Officials say referrals can continue and a government review is planned; the immediate effect on waiting times is undetermined at this time.