A UK charity is preparing a legal challenge after the NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire temporarily halted ADHD referrals for adults over the age of 25. The decision has raised serious concerns about access to mental health services, especially for those unable to afford private assessments.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) announced that from May 21, new referrals for adults over 25 would be paused. The aim is to reduce lengthy waiting lists for children, with some reportedly waiting up to 10 years for an assessment.
Health Impact of Delay
ADHD UK, the national charity advocating for people with ADHD, says this move may be the first time adults in this region must pay privately—often upwards of £1,500—for a diagnosis. Without an official diagnosis, patients cannot access medication that could significantly improve their quality of life.
Henry Shelford, Chief Executive of ADHD UK, criticized the decision as dangerous:
“We know one in 10 men and boys, and one in four women and girls with ADHD, will at some point attempt suicide. Denying access to care is not just discriminatory—it’s life-threatening.”
Shelford warned this decision could set a harmful precedent for other NHS trusts facing budget pressures.
NHS Defends Policy as a Temporary Measure
Dr. Imogen Staveley, Chief Medical Officer of the ICB, explained the pause was necessary due to overwhelming demand:
“Over 7,500 children are currently waiting for ADHD assessments. We are working toward a sustainable, all-age ADHD care pathway.”
ADHD Services Under National Strain
The situation in Coventry and Warwickshire is not unique. Other NHS boards, such as Herefordshire and Worcestershire, have also limited referrals but have accredited independent providers under the “right to choose” law. This law allows patients to select an NHS-registered provider for treatment if wait times are excessive.
Mental health experts say NHS ADHD services are struggling to meet demand due to a growing understanding of the condition.
Professor Anita Thapar, chair of the NHS ADHD Taskforce, said:
“ADHD is underdiagnosed in England, especially among women and girls. Services haven’t kept pace with scientific advances or the growing number of people seeking help.”
ADHD is a neurological condition marked by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. It can lead to serious mental and physical health problems, including depression, anxiety, obesity, and increased risk of heart disease. Undiagnosed individuals may also struggle socially or economically, with higher risks of job loss, substance abuse, and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Financial Barriers Creating Health Inequality
Some adults have resorted to private healthcare out of desperation. Andy Morrison, a Coventry resident, spent £1,500 for a private ADHD assessment after being told NHS wait times could be three years.
“I was struggling with alcohol and couldn’t keep a job. The diagnosis changed everything—I finally understood myself and got the help I needed.”
Calls for Reform
David Hare of the Independent Healthcare Providers Network said the private sector has capacity to help reduce NHS backlogs. He urged the NHS to use those resources to ensure timely access to care for patients of all ages.
Sarah Walter of the NHS Confederation said that Integrated Care Boards are operating under extremely tight budgets and must make difficult choices.
“Waiting lists are too long. Boards may need to prioritize care by age or urgency.”
Meanwhile, NHS England acknowledged that services are overwhelmed due to rising demand. It emphasized the creation of a national ADHD Taskforce aimed at improving services across the country.
In Summary
Health experts and advocacy groups warn that pausing ADHD referrals for adults could increase mental health risks and create serious barriers to treatment. The move highlights broader issues of underfunded ADHD services and the urgent need for nationwide reform to support timely diagnosis and care.
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