16/10/2026
We're pleased to see Integrated Care Northamptonshire providing greater clarity around ADHD and Autism diagnostic pathways across Northamptonshire and neighbouring areas.
The update brings together information about assessment routes, including NHS referrals, Right to Choose options and private assessments, while also reinforcing an important message that support should not be dependent on a diagnosis alone.
However, for many families, the challenge is not simply understanding the pathway. It is the reality of waiting months, and in some cases years, whilst a child, young person or adult continues to struggle without the right support in place.
Behind every referral is often a child finding school increasingly difficult, a young person experiencing anxiety or isolation, an adult trying to make sense of years of challenges, or parents and carers who are exhausted from navigating systems, repeatedly telling their story and advocating for support.
We welcome the recognition that support should be available whether someone has a diagnosis, is awaiting assessment, or is exploring whether neurodivergence may be a factor. However, families now need to see this principle consistently translated into action through timely information, practical support, clear signposting and accessible services whilst they wait.
This is, in many ways, why EnFold was founded.
We repeatedly met families who had received a diagnosis, been referred for assessment, or suspected they or their child may be neurodivergent, but were left unsure where to turn for trustworthy information, practical support or a sense of community. There was a significant gap between services, and many people felt lost whilst waiting for answers.
Today, EnFold receives referrals from professionals across health, education and social care because of the support, guidance, signposting, advocacy and community connections we provide. Yet this general support service sits outside commissioned programmes and remains unfunded, despite the clear demand and growing need across Northamptonshire.
Whilst improvements to diagnostic pathways are welcome, we believe it is equally important that future developments are shaped alongside:
✅ Neurodivergent children, young people and adults
✅ Parents and carers
✅ Frontline voluntary and community organisations
✅ Peer-led groups and lived experience networks
✅ Professionals working across health, education and social care
There is a wealth of expertise within Northamptonshire's neurodivergent community. Those living with these experiences every day, alongside organisations providing frontline support, have valuable insight into what works, what doesn't, and where gaps remain.
We welcome the opportunity to continue working positively with partners across the county to ensure that pathways are not only clinically effective, but also compassionate, accessible and connected to the wider support that people need before, during and after diagnosis.
📖 Read the full article here:
Integrated Care Northamptonshire update
What support made the biggest difference to you or your family whilst waiting for assessment, or what support do you wish had been available?
Read all the latest updates from Northamptonshire Integrated Care System and Northamptonshire Integrated Card Board.
