Adult ADHD Service Pauses New Referrals:

What This Means for Berkshire Residents

From 1 December 2025, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust will temporarily stop accepting new referrals to the Adult ADHD Service. This difficult decision has been made to protect patient safety and ensure the long-term sustainability of the service.

Why is this happening?

The Adult ADHD Service has seen unprecedented demand, far beyond what it was originally designed or commissioned to deliver.

According to Berkshire Healthcare:

• The service is now receiving more referrals in a single month than it was originally expected to assess in an entire year.

• Over 4,000 people are currently on the waiting list.

• More than 1,100 patients who are already prescribed ADHD medication are waiting for their annual reviews, with some delayed by up to three years.

• National shortages of some ADHD medications are adding extra pressure to clinicians and patients.

  
  

Without taking action, the service risks becoming unsafe and unsustainable, which could affect the quality of care for everyone who relies on it.

What will the pause achieve?

During this temporary pause, Berkshire Healthcare will be focusing on:

Catching up on overdue annual ADHD reviews

Supporting those already receiving medication is the priority, ensuring they receive safe monitoring and appropriate follow-up.

Redesigning the ADHD care pathway

The Trust intends to create a more efficient, accessible and sustainable model for the future.

Working with service users and partners

People with lived experience, local partners, and voluntary organisations will help shape a new model of care that better meets Berkshire's needs.

Strengthening shared care with GPs

Improving communication and processes between primary care and specialist teams to help manage demand more safely.

This challenge is not unique to Berkshire—many areas across England are experiencing similar pressures due to a national rise in adult ADHD assessments and medication shortages.

What support is available in the meantime?

Local GP practices remain committed to supporting patients with their ongoing health needs.

Families and individuals with ADHD or Autism can also access various advice and support services locally., and Berkshire Healthcare’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is available for anyone seeking more information or guidance about the changes.

We want to hear from you.

• Have you been affected by these waiting times?

• How have medication shortages or delays impacted you?

• What support do you feel is missing?

• What would you like to see from a redesigned ADHD service?

Your feedback will help us represent local experiences to decision-makers and ensure people’s voices shape future improvements.

📢 Share your experiences with Healthwatch West Berkshire. Email: contact@healthwatchwestberks.org.uk

Phone: 01635 886210

Or message us directly through our online feedback form. Have Your Say | Healthwatch West Berkshire