Neurodevelopmental service update
This page provides an overview of waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments for children and young people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
We recognise that current waiting times for assessment are long and that this can be difficult and frustrating for children, young people, and their families. We want to be open about these challenges and to reassure you that we are working together with our partners to improve access to assessment and reduce waiting times.
Current waiting times
Waiting times may vary depending on the type of assessment and individual circumstances. Typically children and young people will wait:
- ADHD assessments: 63 weeks*
- Autism assessments: 81 weeks*
*These figures reflect the mean average waiting times for June 2026. Some people will be seen sooner than the average waiting time and some patients may wait longer.
We aim to update our waiting times every three months. Last updated: 30th June 2026.
Waiting lists
We're currently reviewing waiting lists and updating the contact details we hold for families. If you’ve recently told us about a change to your contact information, confirmed you would like to stay on the list but haven’t heard back yet, or have not been contacted at all, please don't worry. We are working through these updates and will be in touch as soon as we can.
Our commitment
We know how important timely assessments are. We are working to improve assessment pathways, increase capacity within our services, and ensure families receive appropriate support while waiting. This work is ongoing, and we are committed to keeping families informed as improvements are made.
If you have concerns about your child while waiting, or feel that their needs have worsened, please speak to the professional who made the referral or to your GP.
ADHD and Autism 'Right to Choose' for Under 18s
Right to Choose applies to autism and ADHD assessments for children and young people under 18 years. Every patient in England has the right to choose an alternative NHS commissioned provider of health services at the point of referral or where the waiting list for the referred service is longer than 18 weeks.
- Visit the NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire ICB website for more information: ADHD and Autism Right to Choose for Under 18s .
- Your choices in the NHS - NHS
Support while you wait
We understand that waiting for an assessment can feel uncertain, particularly if your child is struggling at home or school. While a formal diagnosis can be important, support does not need to wait until an assessment is complete.
There is a range of help and guidance available for children, young people, and families while waiting, including support with emotional wellbeing, education, and day ‑ to ‑ day challenges.
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire ICB have produced ‘Support While You Wait’ guides, which outline the services, resources, and practical advice available locally. T hese include information for parents and carers, and age-appropriate resources for children and young people.
- Support available in Herefordshire while waiting for your appointment - Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System
- Support available in Worcestershire while waiting for your appointment - Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System
You may also find it helpful to contact SENDIASS, the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service. The service offers free, impartial advice on education, health, and care processes, and can help you understand what support may be available through schools and local services.
Further support and resources can be found at: Special educational needs and disability (SEND)