"The increase in referrals does not necessarily mean that neurodiversity itself is becoming more prevalent."
- Christine Husbands - RedArc
RedArc has revealed that referrals to the nurse-led organisation for ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia have more than trebled over the past five years, with much of the increase driven by younger generations.
With referrals made via their parents, Gen Alpha accounts for 36% of all neurodiversity support, and Gen Z accounts for a further 26%.
However, Millennials and Gen X also each account for 18% of RedArc’s neurodiversity support.
RedArc says that, with both the NHS and education system under considerable pressure, individuals and families can face lengthy waits for assessment and diagnosis, during which time they may be struggling to understand their own or their child’s needs, get appropriate support at school and also identify what help is available.
It adds that individuals who suspect they may be neurodivergent, and families supporting neurodivergent children, need support before, during and after diagnosis, and that diagnosis is only part of the journey.
Once a diagnosis has been received, individuals and families may face further waits to put appropriate support in place, access specialist services or, where appropriate, obtain medication.
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According to RedArc, the kind of support individuals and families often need includes help to secure funding for assessments, advice on whether an assessment will be recognised by relevant third parties, help understanding NICE guidelines for diagnosing and managing conditions, signposting to specialist local and national charities, arranging occupational therapy and specialist counselling, and practical advice on managing day-to-day challenges around work, school and sleep.
In addition to these services, RedArc says that it also frequently makes people aware of the NHS Right to Choose, an individual’s legal right to choose which NHS provider carries out their assessment.
"The increase in referrals does not necessarily mean that neurodiversity itself is becoming more prevalent, but it does reflect a significant increase in awareness and understanding compared with even five years ago, alongside a growing desire among individuals and families to seek a formal diagnosis," Christine Husbands, commercial consultant at RedArc, said.
"However, we are seeing a significant number of adults who may have gone undiagnosed earlier in life, or who are now recognising that they need more support than they have previously been able to access.
"Whether someone suspects they may be neurodivergent themselves or is supporting a loved one waiting for assessment, diagnosis or appropriate help, it can be a very long and difficult path to tread. Having the right support throughout that journey can be a lifeline for everyone concerned."
