Starting 1 October 2026, NHS Greater Manchester is implementing a new approach to review autism and ADHD assessment referrals for children and young people. Under this system, a multi-agency panel—initially made up of professionals from CAMHS and children’s community health services—will review referral information provided by GPs, schools, or other supporting professionals. The panel will not diagnose children; instead, it will evaluate developmental, behavioural, communication, and mental health needs to decide whether an autism/ADHD assessment, another service, or alternative local support is the most appropriate next step, prioritising those with the highest level of need.
If an assessment is approved, it will be carried out locally by CAMHS for children with moderate to severe mental health needs, or by children’s community health services (or an approved NHS-funded provider) for those without. A formal diagnosis is not required for a child to access support, which remains available through schools, health services, and community programs based on individual need. For children already on a waiting list prior to 1 October 2026, their current provider will remain responsible for their care, though waiting lists are being reviewed to prioritise those with the highest needs.
For more information, visit https://gmintegratedcare.org.uk/keep-well/greater-manchester-autism-adhd-assessment-changes-20