Official data reveals a significant surge in complaints regarding autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder services across England. Complaints increased from 410 in 2021-22 to 1,257 in 2025-26, representing a rise exceeding 200 percent. The parliamentary and health service ombudsman, Paula Sussex, warned that these services face substantial pressure, with demand substantially outpacing available capacity.
The volume of open NHS referrals for these services has reached approximately 562,000, with more than 60 percent of adults and children experiencing waiting lists that exceed one year. An ombudsman report based on analysis of 3,000 complaints identified recurring systemic issues, including inconsistent application of patient choice rights, varying recognition of diagnoses across NHS and independent providers, and extended delays for both assessment and treatment. Sussex characterized the current system as overly complex and inconsistent, stating that numerous patients fall through gaps in service delivery.
Specific cases documented by the ombudsman illustrate the practical consequences of these challenges. One patient was removed from a medication adjustment waiting list without warning or justification, resulting in approximately six months without specialist support. Another individual received an autism assessment lasting 50 minutes that did not align with national guidance standards. A third patient, when referred to an ADHD service not yet operational, incurred nearly £4,000 in private treatment costs after the NHS denied his request to access an alternative provider.
The ombudsman’s office itself has encountered operational strains, now maintaining a six-month waiting period to process incoming complaints due to the increased volume. A government representative indicated that an independent review led by clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy examining prevalence of and support for these conditions was commissioned last December, with the final report expected to be released later this summer to inform a new national approach.
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