Posted: Mon 3rd Feb 2025

Welsh Gov: £13.7 million to improve ADHD and autism services in Wales

News and Info from Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales

A further £13.7 million 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 invested over the past three years and an additional £3 million 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.

Julie Davies, chair of the West Glamorgan Neurodiverse Programme and Head of Adult and Children’s Services at Swansea Council, welcomed the investment, stating:

“The continued funding will be instrumental in addressing the specific needs of individuals, our endeavours to reduce waiting times, and developing innovative approaches to support neurodiverse communities.”

With new outcome measures being developed to track service improvements, the Welsh Government says it remains committed to ensuring that neurodivergent people receive the support they need.

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