Rising demand for autism and ADHD assessments across the West Midlands region is placing increasing pressure on NHS services, with children, young people and adults seeking alternative pathways to diagnosis and support.
Local NHS data in Birmingham shows that children referred for ADHD are currently waiting around 19 to 21 months for assessment and diagnosis, while those referred for autism may wait around 30 months1 for a first assessment appointment. At the same time, adult services are under significant strain, with nearly 6,000 adults waiting for ADHD assessment across Birmingham and Solihull.
These pressures are reflected in the growing demand seen by Purple House Clinic Birmingham and supports individuals and families across both Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands. The clinic has seen a significant increase in demand for neurodevelopmental assessments over the past year, alongside rising requests for post-diagnostic support on how to understand or live well with it.
Dr Danielle Grey, Clinical Director and Clinical Psychologist at Purple House Clinic Birmingham, said: “We are seeing a clear rise in people seeking assessments for autism and ADHD because NHS waiting times are so long. But just as importantly, we’re seeing a need for support beyond the diagnosis itself as people want help understanding what it means for them and how to navigate everyday life. Without the right guidance, and follow-up, it can feel confusing or even overwhelming.
“What we’re seeing locally reflects a wider national picture – rising demand, long waits, and a lack of support once a diagnosis is given. Our focus is on quality, clearness and compassion, ensuring people are supported not just to receive a diagnosis, but to live well with it.”
Nationally and locally, there is increasing discussion about the quality and value of neurodevelopmental assessments, with professionals emphasising the importance of robust, evidence-based assessment processes and appropriate post-diagnostic support. When services are overstretched, there is a risk that assessments become reduced to a label rather than a pathway to understanding and support to help individuals and families make sense of their experiences.
“A diagnosis should be meaningful. Without the right support, it can feel confusing or even isolating. Over-simplifying assessments risks taking away their value, and we know from our clients, that they are looking for reassurance and guidance. Our focus is on helping individuals and families make sense of what they’re going through and supporting them to move forward with confidence. We see the assessment as the beginning of a journey, not the end,” adds Dr Grey.
Purple House Clinic Birmingham offers a clear neurodevelopmental pathway from age seven upwards, combining comprehensive assessment with access to ongoing psychological and therapeutic support. This integrated approach aims to help children, young people and adults understand what their diagnosis means for them in the context of their lives, relationships and emotional wellbeing.
As demand continues to grow across the region, Purple House Clinic Birmingham plans to continue expanding its multidisciplinary team of therapists and services to meet the needs of the local community.
If you have any queries about neurodevelopment assessments, please get in touch with your local Purple House Clinic and they will be happy to answer any questions you have and discuss your options.
- Birmingham (NHS published pathway data, Nov 2025)