(England) Calls for "earlier intervention" and "greater support" for ASD/ADHD
A major review has called for significant changes to how support is delivered for ADHD, autism, and mental health conditions.
The independent review, commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care and led by Professor Peter Fonagy, recommended moving away from a diagnosis-dependent system to one focused on individual needs and levels of impairment.
Aimed at ensuring timely access to care, the review was shaped by expertise from the University of Oxford and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (OHFT).
Professor Mina Fazel, chair of child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Oxford, said: "We are enormously grateful to the young people and schools who contributed to the OxWell Student Survey, helping bring young people’s voices and experiences into this important national review.
"Our findings highlight how young people understand their own neurodivergence, where they seek support, and the vital role school staff play in young people’s networks of care."
The review highlighted growing demand for ADHD and autism assessments, with more than 560,000 open ADHD referrals and more than 254,000 open autism referrals recorded by the end of 2025.
It called for earlier intervention, better integration of care, and greater support to help individuals participate in education, employment, and community life. . . .
OHFT’s research informatics systems manager Adam Pill said: "The review highlights the importance of high-quality data in understanding demand, identifying inequalities and planning services effectively. .; . .
The review also cited research from the Oxford Centre for Emerging Minds Research (OCEMR).
Professor Polly Waite, deputy director of OCEMR, said: "This review presents an important opportunity to change how we support children and young people’s mental health.
"Our research is focused on understanding what works for who and developing effective interventions that can reach more children and young people.
"The challenge now is to translate that evidence into accessible support for all who need it." . . .
Comments