The government has pledged to provide broader support and advice at the earliest opportunity for children, young people, and adults experiencing mental distress, without the need to wait for a clinical diagnosis. This commitment comes in response to the Independent Review into prevalence and support for mental health conditions, ADHD, and autism, published today, 9 October 2026.
The findings of the review, chaired by Professor Peter Fonagy, indicated a substantial increase in mental distress among children and young people, influenced by factors such as social media and financial insecurity. While referrals and diagnoses for ADHD and autism have risen, the review found that population-level prevalence appears broadly stable.
In response, the government plans a major overhaul of mental health support within a forthcoming Mental Health Strategy. This strategy will prioritise prevention and early intervention, ensuring that individuals receive appropriate, needs-based help. The Health and Social Care Secretary has also requested NHS leaders to urgently review how access to advice, assessments, and treatment can be improved.
Additionally, the government intends to strengthen the oversight and regulation of ADHD and autism assessments. This includes working towards making all diagnostic assessments a CQC-regulated activity, aiming to ensure accuracy and robust clinical practice for both NHS and private providers. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Yvette Cooper stated that this action will help ensure assessments are high quality and prevent the NHS from being overcharged by independent or private providers.