Greater Manchester Introduces Changes to ADHD and Autism Assessment Pathways
People across Greater Manchester will see changes to ADHD and autism assessment services from 1 April 2026, as NHS Greater Manchester responds to growing demand and increasing waiting lists.
The changes, which include adjustments to the use of NHS Right to Choose (RtC) providers, are intended to prioritise patients with the greatest clinical need while maintaining safe, high-quality care.
Rising Demand and Growing Waiting Lists
Demand for ADHD and autism assessments has continued to rise both locally and nationally. In Greater Manchester alone, waiting lists for adult ADHD and autism assessments now exceed 25,000 people, with average waits ranging from 18 months to more than seven years.
NHS Greater Manchester has warned that, without intervention, the number of people waiting could soon exceed 30,000.
Despite this increasing pressure, funding for 2026/27 has remained unchanged.
Health leaders acknowledge that long waits can be distressing for individuals and families. In response, services will now prioritise assessments based on clinical need, ensuring that people whose health and wellbeing are most significantly affected are seen first.
While some patients may face longer waits, everyone currently on a waiting list will retain their place and will be offered an assessment as capacity becomes available.
Changes for Children and Young People
For children and young people aged 0–18, a new review and triage process is being introduced.
Rather than focusing solely on mental health symptoms, the updated approach will assess the wider needs of each child or young person. This is intended to create a more personalised package of support tailored to individual circumstances.
Changes to Right to Choose Referrals
Under the revised arrangements for NHS Right to Choose providers:
- Appointments will be released more gradually
- Patients with urgent or complex needs will be prioritised
- Changes will apply to new, non-urgent referrals for ADHD and autism assessments made through RtC pathways
NHS Greater Manchester stressed that no patient will lose their place on a waiting list. Referral dates will remain unchanged, and appointments will continue to be offered in referral date order when capacity allows.
Care and treatment for people already receiving medication or ongoing support will continue uninterrupted.
New Clinical Standards Introduced
Providers delivering ADHD and autism services across Greater Manchester are now expected to:
- Carry out autism assessments face to face
- Complete ADHD physical health checks in person
According to NHS Greater Manchester, these measures align with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance and are designed to ensure assessments are delivered safely and consistently.
Where providers are unable to meet the revised care model, patients will instead be supported through local NHS services to ensure clinical standards are maintained.
Focus on Higher-Need Patients
The updated approach places greater emphasis on supporting people whose ADHD or autism-related difficulties have the most significant impact on their health, safety, or wellbeing.
NHS Greater Manchester says clinical judgement will be used consistently to ensure prioritisation decisions are “fair, proportionate and safe”.
Encouraging Support Beyond Diagnosis
Health leaders are also encouraging organisations to make greater use of support that does not require a formal diagnosis.
Local authorities, schools, colleges and employers are being urged to provide reasonable adjustments and practical support wherever possible, helping people access assistance without waiting for an assessment outcome.
Partners across health and care services are also being encouraged to share clear and consistent messaging to reduce anxiety and combat misinformation for those currently waiting.
For further information, visit the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership ADHD and Autism Assessments page.
