Update February 2026 – There have been a number of changes and updates implemented by the ICB over the past 2 years regarding NHS-funded ADHD and ASD referrals. In order to get the most accurate information based on your age and severity, please contact the practice directly either by calling or submitting an online request. We will help support you as best as we can through these changes and answer any questions you may have. You can click here to learn more about other services in our community that may be able to offer additional support.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) has made important changes to how ADHD assessments and treatment are provided. These changes have been implemented on a temporary basis to help tackle the long waiting times for those most vulnerable, in particular children who have been facing years long waiting lists. This is not a decision Park Leys has been involved in.
As of May 2025, the ICB will only commission new ADHD referrals for those ages under 25 years old. This means:
- New referrals for ADHD assessments and treatment will only be accepted for patients under 25.
- Adults aged 25 and over will not be eligible for new NHS-funded ADHD assessments at this time.
- These changes apply to all providers, including Right to Choose services and Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust (CWPT).
- Adults who have already been referred will still receive their assessments and treatment as planned.
- This is a temporary policy while the ICB works on a full review and improvement of the ADHD care pathway across the region.
These changes were made to help tackle the significant pressure the current ADHD system in Coventry and Warwickshire is under:
- Over 7,500 children and young people are waiting for an assessment.
- Some children face waits of over 10 years.
- The majority of current referrals under the Right to Choose pathway are for adults, despite children often experiencing a greater need for early
- diagnosis and support.
- Clinical experts agree that an early diagnosis of ADHD can be life-changing for children — helping them succeed at school, build relationships, and develop essential life skills.
By temporarily pausing new adult referrals, the ICB can redirect resources to support children and young people, reduce long waiting times, and start transforming ADHD services for the future.
If you believe you or your child may have ADHD and would like to be referred, please reach out to the surgery via our e-consultation service (accessible during opening hours) and our secretary team will be in touch with the relevant paperwork required to start the process. Please be aware we cannot recommend providers for ‘Right To Choose’ as it is dependent on your specific needs. It is important to thoroughly research your chosen provider. You may be given a recommendation to commence medication, however not all providers are able to assist with prescribing or titrating medication and the practice are unable to assist with this. After successful titration, the practice is willing to consider a shared cared agreement to help facilitate issuing medication, please speak to your provider for more information.
For those aged over 25 who are no longer eligible for a new NHS ADHD assessment at this time can access other support options, including:
In exceptional cases, where an adult has complex needs or is at high risk, there is the option of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) that can be raised with the ICB.
For further information visit the Happy Healthy Lives website.
This policy will remain in place until a new and improved ADHD care pathway has been developed for Coventry and Warwickshire. We will update our website when new information is available.
If you are unhappy with these changes, please direct your feedback directly to the Coventry and Warwickshire ICB who welcome feedback and concerns regarding this matter.
If you are affected by this policy and wish to make a complaint, you can do so in the following ways:
- Email: cwicb.complaints@nhs.net
- Phone: 024 7652 6815
- Post:
Complaints Team
NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board
Shire Hall
Market Place
Warwick
CV34 4RL
You can also visit the ICB’s complaints webpage directly for more information.