Rise in Children's Mental Health Referrals for Neurodevelopmental Conditions

The number of children referred to mental health services for support with autism, ADHD, and related conditions has seen a significant increase, according to a recent report by the Children's Commissioner for England. The report reveals that referrals have risen by 28 per cent in a year, with children experiencing average waits of up to seven months for treatment. This trend is concerning, as it highlights the growing need for mental health support in England's children and young people.

Key Takeaways:

• The number of children referred to mental health services for neurodevelopmental conditions has increased by 28 per cent in a year, from 147,600 in 2022-23 to 188,700.
• Children with autism face the longest average wait, with a wait time of seven months, compared to other conditions.
• Almost one million children in England (8 per cent of all children) have an active referral to mental health services.
• One in four referrals were for children aged nine or under, highlighting the need for early intervention.
• Over 60,000 children were referred to mental health services in 2023-24, with 6 per cent of these referrals being for children in crisis.
• Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children's Commissioner for England, emphasized the importance of addressing the unmet additional needs of children with neurodevelopmental conditions.

Statistics:

• 188,700: the number of referrals for neurodevelopmental conditions in 2023-24.
• 147,600: the number of referrals in 2022-23.
• 28 per cent: the increase in referrals for neurodevelopmental conditions.
• 7 months: the average wait time for children with autism.
• 1 million: the number of children in England with a referral to mental health services.
• 60,000: the number of children referred in 2023-24 for being "in crisis".
• 8 per cent: the proportion of children in England with an active referral to mental health services.
• 6 per cent: the proportion of referrals in 2023-24 that were for children in crisis.
• 103 days: the longest average wait time for treatment, reported by NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

Sources:

• "Children's Commissioner for England" (2024), "Annual Report: Children's Mental Health, Report to Parliament".
• NHS England statement in response to the report.
• Professor Francesca Happe, "Neurodivergent Britons: A Growing Realisation".