Current status: Answered by Maree Todd on 31 August 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to reduce waiting times for diagnosis and treatment of children and young people with ADHD.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of people seeking a neurodevelopmental diagnosis and support, resulting in increased pressure across a range of services.
Recognising these pressures, last year the Scottish Government and COSLA undertook a review of the implementation of the National Neurodevelopmental Specification for Children and Young People. The Specification is clear that support should be put in place at the earliest opportunity on the basis of need, and should not wait for, or be dependent on, a formal diagnosis.
The review identified areas of good practice and areas where further action is required. It highlighted the significant pressures facing services and the need for clearer national direction and practical support to help deliver timely, neuro-affirming care across Scotland.
In response to these findings, the Scottish Government committed to a programme of work to support health boards and local authorities in delivering the aims of the Specification. This work is being supported by the cross-sector Children and Young People’s Neurodevelopment Taskforce, which brings together expertise from health, education, local government and the third sector to ensure a collaborative, whole-system approach to improving support and services for children and young people.