An independent review has been launched to examine how the NHS delivers mental health, autism, and ADHD services, aiming to ensure children and adults receive the right support. The review, starting Thursday, is part of the government’s 10-Year Health Plan commitment to transforming mental health care.
Lord Darzi’s investigation found rising demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services, with many struggling to access appropriate support. Data shows that the prevalence of common mental health conditions among 16- to 64-year-olds increased from 15.5% in 1993 to 22.6% in 2023-24. Meanwhile, the number of people waiting for autism assessments in September 2025 was thirteen times higher than in April 2019.
The review coincides with an additional £688 million in funding, allocated to recruit 8,500 mental health workers, expand NHS Talking Therapies, and increase the number of mental health emergency departments. These measures aim to reduce waiting times and improve access to care.
Government Perspective
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the urgency of the review: “I know from personal experience how devastating it can be for people with poor mental health, ADHD, or autism who cannot get a diagnosis or support. We must examine the system clinically to understand what we know, what we don’t, and how to ensure timely access to effective care.”
The review will explore the drivers of rising demand, including inequalities in access, and assess whether current interventions are appropriate. It will also recommend evidence-based approaches to prevention and early intervention.
Leadership and Advisory Structure
The review is chaired by Professor Peter Fonagy, a clinical psychologist and National Clinical Advisor on Children and Young People’s Mental Health. Findings are expected in summer 2026. An advisory working group of academics, clinicians, charities, and people with lived experience will scrutinize evidence and help shape recommendations.
Professor Fonagy said: “We will examine the evidence carefully—from research, lived experience, and frontline clinicians—to understand what is driving rising demand. The goal is honest, evidence-based recommendations that improve lives.”
Supporting Measures
The review complements a broader government strategy to transform mental health care, including:
Recruiting 8,500 additional mental health workers.
Expanding NHS Talking Therapies to treat 915,000 people annually by March 2029.
Establishing around 85 mental health emergency departments, with up to £120 million funding.
Rolling out Mental Health Support Teams in schools and colleges, with enhanced staff training.
Supporting inclusive environments for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities through the Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) programme.
Piloting six neighbourhood adult mental health centres operating 24/7.
Reactions from Experts
Mental health organizations welcomed the review.
Mark Rowland, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said: “This is a key moment to understand how social, economic, and technological changes have affected mental health and how to respond. Too often, people reach crisis before getting support. Prevention and timely interventions must be central.”
Dr Sarah Hughes, Chief Executive of Mind, emphasized: “More people need help than services can handle. Mental health deteriorates while people wait, and support isn’t always appropriate. Addressing social and economic factors driving demand is critical.”
Dr Lade Smith CBE, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, noted: “We have an opportunity to ensure millions receive the care they need now and in the future. The review must rigorously identify gaps in care and highlight effective treatments.”
Baroness Anne Longfield, Executive Chair of the Centre for Young Lives, added: “Children and young people’s mental health has worsened significantly. This review can be a catalyst for vastly improved support when and where it’s needed.”
Mel Merritt, Head of Policy at the National Autistic Society, stressed: “Autistic people face long waits and health inequalities affecting life expectancy. This review must be informed by specialists and those with lived experience to ensure urgent action.”
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