Feb 3, 2025, Deeside: Welsh Gov: £13.7 million to improve ADHD and autism services in Wales
A further £13.7 million [$17M] will be invested in neurodivergence services in Wales to reduce waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments and improve long-term support.
The funding, announced by Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Sarah Murphy, will extend the National Neurodivergence Improvement Programme until March 2027.
It builds on £12 million [$15M] invested over the past three years and an additional £3 million [$3.7M] allocated in November to tackle long waiting times for children’s neurodevelopmental assessments.
The announcement comes as demand for neurodivergence services continues to rise across Wales, driven by increased awareness of conditions such as autism and ADHD.
Ms Murphy said:
“We know radical change is needed in this sector and we are working with the NHS and services to improve long-term support for neurodivergent children, adults and their families.
“In the face of unprecedented demand for both diagnosis and treatment, we have made significant progress in developing integrated services.
“This further investment will help reduce assessment waiting times while ensuring sustainable support is available for those who need it.”*
The investment follows a two-day design event held in November, where 170 stakeholders, including the NHS Executive, worked on developing a national approach to children’s neurodivergence services.
The National Autism Team has also been rebranded as the National Neurodivergence Team, which is evaluating the impact of the Statutory Code of Practice, with a revised version set to be completed by March 2026. . . .

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