Neurodiversity – ADHD

(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Seeking a diagnosis for ADHD in the UK.

 The information below is designed to allow you to understand neurodiversity and the processes by which you can approach a formal diagnosis and assessment.

 Please note that whilst these conditions are relatively common, an assessment is only required if it is significantly impacting on daily life.

PLEASE NOTE:

• From 1st November 2026 -  A new all-age Autism and ADHD Single Point of Access (SPoA) triage Hub is being introduced, this will replace CAMHS for children's ADHD referrals.

Please see links below with all of the up to date information:

Autism and ADHD Assessment Services :: NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight

All-Age ADHD and Autism Single Point of Access and Triage Hub :: NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight

NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (HIOW ICB) is introducing a new All Age Autism and ADHD Single Point of Access (SPoA) and Triage Hub.

The Hub and SPoA, provided by PHL Group in Hampshire will provide a single route for people who may be Autistic, may have ADHD, or both. It will review referral information and help ensure referrals are forwarded to the most appropriate NHS-commissioned service or eligible Right to Choose provider for diagnostic assessment and, where appropriate, ADHD medication services.

The development of the Single Point of Access (SPoA) and Triage Hub has been informed by survey feedback and co-produced with people with lived experience, clinical experts and system partners. Their insights and expertise have helped shape the design of the service to ensure it is person-centred, accessible and responsive to the needs of local people and referring professionals.

The introduction of the SPoA and Triage Hub forms part of wider work across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to improve co-ordination of access to Autism and ADHD assessment services and support a more consistent approach to referral management.

The SPoA and Triage Hub will:

• provide a single referral route for new patients identified as requiring ADHD or autism assessments 

• determine the most appropriate pathway or service;

• provide the patient with support within the local system whilst waiting

The SPoA and Triage Hub will receive referrals only from Primary Care, or Health Education. Social Care, Mental Health Services and Community Hubs. No self-referrals will be accepted The SPoA and Triage Hub will not undertake autism or ADHD diagnostic assessments, make autism or ADHD diagnosis, prescribe medication or provide ongoing clinical treatment.  

What happens after a referral?

The Hub's clinical team will review the information provided and determine the most appropriate autism diagnostic assessment service, ADHD diagnostic assessment service, based on the individual's needs and circumstances.

Specialist staff will then discuss the available onward referral options with individuals, including locally commissioned services, and eligible Right to Choose providers, the likely waiting times and other local avenuaes for support of safer waiting for patients, enabling the patient to make a well-informed decision about the most appropriate provision. If the patient already has a preferred Right to Choose provider, they will need to inform the GP so this can be indicated on the referral form. The Hub will also provide information about relevant support available to individuals, families and carers while they are waiting for an assessment or accessing other support services.

What happens to people already waiting for assessment?

People who have already been referred for an autism or ADHD assessment or are currently on a waiting list will remain within their existing pathway and will continue to be managed through current arrangements. The new Hub is intended to provide a consistent referral and triage route for new referrals and will not require people already in existing pathways to start the referral process again.

Contact the surgery via E-Consult for a potential referral.

Children (under 18)

Please contact your child's education setting (school/college), to make this referral for ASD / ADHD. They can refer to the Neurodevelopmental Single Point of Access Triage Hub. Please see below link for further information about the triage hub.

Right to Choose referral 

 Patients have the right to choose a provider that has a contract with an NHS body. An up-to-date list of these is on the ADHD UK website - Right to Choose - ADHD UK For up to date information, please see this document Right To Choose waiting list support links. 

Right to Choose referrals are now accessed through the new triage hub as above. 

If you would like a Right to Choose referral, then please let the practice know at the time of referral and we can request this on the referral when we send it through to the hub. 

ADHD and Autism Single Point of Access – Right to Choose referrals and provider selection

Private Diagnosis 

• You may consider a private diagnosis. Private assessments can be more costly, but they may offer faster access to support. Private healthcare providers and clinics in the UK often offer ADHD assessments, but it’s essential to choose a reputable provider with experience in diagnosing these conditions.
• Here is some more information about a private diagnosis. 

 Private Diagnosis - For Adult ADHD | ADHD UK

After Diagnosis: Available Treatments and Support

Once diagnosed, several options can help manage ADHD symptoms and improve quality of life.

ADHD Treatment and Support

• • Medication: Stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate) and non-stimulant medications (e.g., atomoxetine) can be prescribed to help manage ADHD symptoms. These medications must be prescribed and monitored by a specialist.
    
    Please note that if is medication is started by a private clinic, this will not be prescribed by the NHS.  This will be prescribed and monitored privately through the assessing clinic on an ongoing basis and the practice will not provide shared care prescribing.
  •   Behavioural Therapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other behavioural therapies can help with organisational skills, impulse control, and social challenges.
  • Lifestyle and Support: Regular exercise, a structured routine, and support with organisational skills can make a significant difference. Support groups like ADHD UK and ADDISS provide resources and community connections