The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched an independent review into the increasing demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services in England. This initiative comes with an additional £688 million in funding and reflects government efforts to address the increasing welfare bill.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the need for a clinical approach to achieve an evidence-based understanding of current issues in mental health diagnosis and support. He stated, "We must look at this through a strictly clinical lens to get an evidence-based understanding... That's the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support."
Streeting, who has previously suggested that mental health conditions might be "overdiagnosed," acknowledges that the current system faces increased pressure, resulting in extended wait times for individuals needing urgent mental health assistance.
Earlier this year, the government retracted plans to reduce disability benefits for individuals with mental health conditions, following significant opposition from Labour backbenchers. However, the prime minister has recently pledged to reform the welfare system, claiming that it has "trapped people in poverty" and "wrote young people off as too ill to work."
The review will be led by clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy, with findings expected to be published in the Summer of 2026. Prof. Fonagy stated the review's goal is to rigorously test assumptions and listen closely to those affected, ensuring the recommendations are both honest and useful.
According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, as of March this year, about four million working-age adults in England and Wales claimed disability or incapacity benefits, an increase from nearly three million in 2019.
The DHSC highlighted that increased demand on the NHS has resulted in long waits and overstretched services, with some people feeling abandoned when they needed support the most.
Mental health charity Mind has welcomed the government's announcement, with chief executive Dr. Sarah Hughes saying it provides an opportunity to understand what drives the increasing levels of mental illness, particularly among young people.
Dr. Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, emphasized the importance of identifying care gaps and considering the complex reasons for people seeking help.
The National Autistic Society also pointed out the urgent need for action, noting that although the number of people seeking assessments is stabilizing, the average waiting time continues to rise.