ADHD and Autism Assessments
ADHD awareness is rising and demand for diagnosis and support services continues to grow. To meet this demand, it’s essential that local services adapt to ensure they are accessible and meet the needs of the community.
Current challenges
- Long waiting times: Demand for ADHD assessments has grown beyond service capacity. Waiting lists are expected to exceed 25,000 people across Greater Manchester without changes
- Unequal access: The current model works on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis. This makes it harder to get urgent help to the people who need it most. The level of support also depends on where you live, so not everyone gets the same access to care across Greater Manchester
- Concerns about long-term service quality: Rising costs and an outdated service model highlight the need for change to ensure resources can continue to meet growing demand
Getting your views
Between April and June 2025, we ran a public consultation to provide an opportunity for adults living with ADHD to have their say on what’s working, what isn’t and where improvements could be made.
We engaged with over 2,500 people. This feedback is now being considered and will be used to develop proposals for future services and support. Read our consultation feedback report.
Our vision
The vision for our new adult ADHD service in Greater Manchester will be:
- Faster access to services: ensuring that those at highest clinical risk are seen sooner
- Fairer access across Greater Manchester helping everyone get the care they need based on their specific needs, not when they requested help
- A wider range of support options: including self-help tools, peer support, and non-medical interventions alongside medication
- A better ADHD service: to manage growing demand so people get the care and support they need, within the financial resources available to the NHS in Greater Manchester
Changes to ADHD and Autism (ASD) Assessments in Greater Manchester
From 1 September 2025, there are changes to how ADHD and autism (ASD) assessments are managed in Greater Manchester.
As your Integrated Care Board (ICB), we have to make sure care and treatment is distributed fairly and within the budget we have available for our whole population.
To help us do this, we’re introducing Indicative Activity Plans (IAPs) with all assessment providers which set out how many patients each provider can see in a year.
- You still have the right to choose your provider
- Waiting times may be longer than before, as many providers have already reached their yearly limits
- You’ll have a clearer idea of how long you may need to wait
- People with urgent needs will be prioritised
- If you’re at high risk or really struggling right now, ask your GP for a referral to a local Greater Manchester service instead
- Be sure to tell your GP exactly what you’re finding difficult so your referral is prioritised
If your chosen provider has already hit their limit, they may:
- Keep you on their waiting list and see you in the next financial year under a new activity plan
- Return your referral to your GP, who will then discuss next steps with you
While you wait
We know waiting can be tough. In the meantime, you can:
- Visit the NHS web pages ADHD in adults – NHS and Autism – NHS
- Explore local support groups or charities
- Talk to your GP about self-management strategies
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
