AQW 30928/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the report into the commissioning of ADHD services; and (ii) when it will be published.

Asked by Peter McReynolds MLA on 11 September 2025

  • Answered
  • Written
  • Priority
Tabled
11 September 2025
Answer due by
19 September 2025
Answered
19 September 20258 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
Yes

Answer

The Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.

The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including potential implementation and staffing costs.

While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.

Official sources