ADHD Needs Assessment report published
Date published:
The Department of Health has published the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Needs Assessment final report.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, aims 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.
It also specifically includes consideration of the prison population, recognising the significantly higher prevalence rates of ADHD compared to the general population.
The report’s recommendations will help inform options for a potential commissioned ADHD service across Northern Ireland, subject to future budget availability.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said:
“This report provides an evidence-based assessment of need to inform future consideration of ADHD services in Northern Ireland.
“It is based on stakeholder engagement, analysis of current provision and learning from other jurisdictions, and is published in the interests of transparency.
“However, it is important to highlight that any future commissioning decisions must be taken in the context of overall affordability, at a time when we face significant funding constraints across health and social care.
“Its aim, however, is to support informed discussion and longer-term planning grounded in evidence and lived experience.”
The needs assessment sets out 19 recommendations to inform future commissioning, workforce planning and the development of integrated ADHD pathways.
The Minister added:
“I fully recognise the significant impact that the absence of a commissioned ADHD service, and the resulting delays in assessment and treatment, are having on individuals with ADHD and on their families, affecting wellbeing, education, employment and family life.
“The report, however, is clear that there are no cost neutral options for implementing a commissioned ADHD service. Any form of service would require either new investment or the reallocation of funding from other highly pressured areas. I am committed to transparency, continued engagement with stakeholders, and to ensuring that future decisions are proportionate, realistic and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes within the resources available.”
The report’s recommendations are now being considered by the Department with a view to identifying next steps.
Notes to editors:
- The ADHD Needs Assessment report can be read in full online: ADHD Needs Assessment Report | Department of Health
- The Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025.
- The assessment included a literature review and consideration of best practice in other jurisdictions; an assessment of existing ADHD service provision, including barriers and challenges; and an analysis of future demand to inform recommendations for a future commissioned service, including estimated costs, workforce requirements and recommendations for future implementation.
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