NHS at risk of ‘system failures’ as demand for ADHD and autism care soars, inquiry finds
Summary
A government-commissioned report warns that England’s NHS is struggling to meet rising demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism care, leading to long waits for diagnosis and support. The report also highlights a sharp increase in mental health issues, especially among young people, and calls for better regulation of private clinics and care based on individual need.Key Facts
- Demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism care in England has risen sharply in recent decades.
- Over 560,000 people were waiting for ADHD assessments at the end of last year, 17 times higher than in 2019.
- More than 254,000 people were waiting for autism diagnosis assessments, totaling over 800,000 waiting for either condition.
- About 90% of people waiting have been on the list for at least three months.
- Mental health problems have increased significantly, especially among those aged 16 to 24, rising from about 1 in 6 to 1 in 4.
- The number of children aged 6 to 11 diagnosed with autism increased 20 times between 2000 and 2025; for those aged 12 to 17, it increased 40 times.
- The report says the rise in mental health problems is real and linked to social and economic pressures, not just greater awareness.
- It recommends that care should focus on a person’s needs and suggests tougher rules for private clinics as many people seek care outside the NHS.
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