24/08/2026
From Healthwatch Wigan & Leigh
ADHD & Autism (ASD) Assessment Waiting Times Update
Information for Patients and Families
Current Position
Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB) has advised that routine NHS-funded ADHD and Autism assessment activity is currently paused until at least 31 March 2027 due to funding pressures. This affects both local NHS services and Right to Choose (RTC) providers.
As a result, waiting times for assessment are now significantly longer than previously expected across all referral pathways.
Estimated Waiting Times
Current estimated waiting times are:
ยท Wigan ADHD Service: 7+ years
ยท Wigan Autism Service: 5+ years
ยท Right to Choose Providers: 3+ years
ยท WWL Paediatric ADHD & ASD Services: 2-3 years
Please note these are estimates and may change as demand continues to increase.
Right to Choose Referrals
Many Right to Choose providers advertise waiting times on their websites. However, Greater Manchester ICB has advised that these published waiting times do not accurately reflect the wait for patients in Greater Manchester, as assessments depend on available NHS funding rather than provider capacity alone.
Unfortunately, choosing a different Right to Choose provider is not expected to result in a quicker assessment.
If You Are Already Waiting
Patients who have already been accepted onto a Right to Choose provider waiting list should remain on that waiting list. There is no need for a new referral.
The ICB has advised that once a Right to Choose referral has been accepted, patients cannot routinely transfer to another provider simply to seek a shorter waiting time.
These waiting lists are managed by the assessment providers and NHS commissioners, and are outside the control of the practice.
Helpful Resources While You Wait
Many people find the following organisations helpful for advice, information and support:
ADHD
ยท ADHD UK โ www.adhduk.co.uk
Autism
ยท National Autistic Society โ www.autism.org.uk
Children and Young People
ยท SEND Information Advice & Support Service (SENDIASS)
ยท Local school SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
ยท Family Hubs and local support services
Support and reasonable adjustments can often be explored through schools, colleges, universities and employers without a formal diagnosis.
We are the UKs leading charity for autistic people and their families. Since 1962, we have been providing support, guidance and advice, as well as campaigning for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people.
