Neurodiversity & ADHD Information – ADULTS
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people think, learn, and experience the world. It includes conditions such as:
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- Autism
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Tourette’s syndrome
Being neurodivergent is not an illness—it is a different way of processing information. However, some people may need support to manage challenges in education, work, or daily life.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD can affect:
- Attention and concentration
- Organisation and time management
- Impulsivity and emotional regulation
For some people, symptoms can have a significant impact on daily life, relationships, education, and work.
Understanding the Current Situation – which is in the process of changing
We fully recognise that accessing ADHD assessment and treatment can feel frustrating, particularly due to long waiting times and limited services.
Historically, ADHD has been a secondary care service, managed by specialist consultants such as psychiatrists. However, over time, increasing demand combined with wider pressures and funding constraints across the NHS has meant that services have struggled to keep pace.
As a result:
- Waiting lists have grown significantly
- Access to timely assessment is limited
- Services are under considerable pressure
We understand how difficult this can be for patients, especially when symptoms are affecting daily life. Unfortunately, these are system-wide issues that sit outside the control of individual GP practices.
Our role is to support you as best we can within these constraints and to help guide you towards appropriate services.
Accessing ADHD Assessment in Cheshire & Merseyside
In our area, referrals are guided by criteria set by the Integrated Care Board (ICB).
Before Referral
You can be referred if:
- Symptoms cause significant difficulties in at least two areas of life
- You have already tried practical strategies and adjustments
- A diagnosis is needed to support treatment or access services
You may be asked to provide supporting information to demonstrate this
Assessment Requirements
- The first appointment must be face-to-face
- A physical health check must be carried out by the provider
- The provider must be within reasonable travel distance
For full details and the most up to date information regarding ADHD in Liverpool please see the Cheshire and Merseyside ICB website which has information and a frequently asked questions section. ADHD services for adults – NHS Cheshire and Merseyside
What is “Right to Choose”?
“Right to Choose” allows patients to choose which provider they are referred to for certain NHS services, including ADHD assessment.
While this can offer more choice, it is important to understand that:
- Providers must still meet local NHS (ICB) requirements
- Not all providers meet these standards
- Services are still subject to capacity and funding limitations
Right to Choose Providers
There are several providers offering ADHD assessments.
However, based on current local guidance:
⚠️ We do not currently feel that most Right to Choose providers meet the standards required by our local NHS system.
✔️ At present, the only provider we consider to meet these requirements is:
- Quay Healthcare
Quay Healthcare ADHD Service
Quay Healthcare is the local NHS-commissioned ADHD provider.
Due to NHS funding limits:
- Current waiting times are approximately 7 years
- Referrals are still being accepted
- Patients remain on the waiting list in date order
We appreciate how challenging this is and understand the impact this can have.
Our Practice Policy on ADHD & Prescribing
We aim to be open and transparent about what we can and cannot safely provide.
Shared Care and ADHD Medication
From 15th December 2025:
- We do not enter into shared care agreements with:
- Private providers
- Right to Choose providers
- We do not take over prescribing of ADHD medication started outside NHS services
Why We Have This Policy
We want to reassure patients that this policy is:
- Not a judgement on ADHD or those seeking support
- Not intended to create barriers to care
Instead, it reflects:
- The fact that these arrangements are considered non-core, unfunded NHS work
- The need for specialist monitoring and clear clinical responsibility
- The reality that GP practices are working under significant workload and capacity pressures
Our priority is to ensure we can safely deliver core NHS care for all patients.
What This Means for You
If you choose a private or Right to Choose provider:
- They are responsible for:
- Prescribing medication
- Monitoring treatment
- Ongoing follow-up
If you prefer NHS care:
- We can refer you to appropriate NHS services (e.g. Quay Healthcare)
- NHS waiting times will apply
We will always do our best to support you in accessing appropriate care and guidance.
Future Plans in Liverpool
Liverpool is currently exploring the development of a primary care-led ADHD service.
We are hopeful this will:
- Improve access
- Reduce waiting times
- Provide more local support
As soon as this becomes available, we will update our website and inform patients. For full details and the most up to date information regarding ADHD in Liverpool please see the Cheshire and Merseyside ICB website which has information and a frequently asked questions section. ADHD services for adults – NHS Cheshire and Merseyside
Support for Neurodiversity
National Support
Local Support (Liverpool)
- Liverpool Adult ADHD Service (Quay Healthcare)
- Liverpool City Council Support
- A welcoming community for adults with ADHD in Merseyside | ADHD Connect
- Liverpool Adult ADHD/Ladders of Life Ltd UK | Facebook
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Support for neurological conditions | The Brain Charity
- Addvanced 2025 – supporting neurodivergent children and young people, their families and the professionals that work with them
Your Options – Summary
We understand this can feel overwhelming, so here is a simple summary of your options:
1. NHS Referral
- You can request a referral to an NHS ADHD service (e.g. Quay Healthcare) – You can do this via health form via our Paco Digital
- Waiting times are currently very long (approximately 7 years)
- Assessment, treatment, and prescribing are fully managed within the NHS
- All other NHS options in Cheshire and Merseyside have closed their books to new referral due to current wait times.
2. Right to Choose
- You may request referral to a Right to Choose provider – Right to Choose – ADHD UK
- Not all providers meet local NHS (ICB) requirements
- At present, we feel Quay Healthcare is the only provider that meets these standards
- Waiting times still apply – Right to Choose – ADHD UK – Your NHS options
3. Private Assessment
- You can choose to access a private provider directly
- This may offer faster assessment
- However:
- The provider must manage all prescribing and monitoring
- The practice will not take over prescribing or shared care
4. Ongoing Support Without Diagnosis
- You can access:
- Workplace or education adjustments
- Self-help strategies and support organisations
- Mental health and wellbeing support
Key Points to Remember
- We understand how frustrating delays and limitations can be
- These challenges are due to wider NHS system pressures and are outside the control of the practice
- We will always do our best to:
- Listen to your concerns
- Provide advice and guidance
- Refer you to appropriate services where possible
