The department has acknowledged the vital role of early intervention and support for children, yet emphasized that current ‘evidence does not support neurodevelopmental screening for all children.’ In a statement released on January 28, it highlighted that numerous individuals, including children and adolescents with potential neurodevelopmental issues, face significant delays in obtaining necessary services, such as assessments and support.

The department expressed a desire to enhance early identification and assistance. The government’s 10-Year Health Plan stresses the importance of early intervention. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s (NICE) ADHD guidelines (NG87), universal screening for ADHD is not recommended in nursery, primary, and secondary educational institutions.

The evidence backing this guideline reveals minimal impact from implementing a universal screening program in schools for addressing children’s ADHD symptoms. Similarly, in February 2023, the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) reviewed the practice of screening for autism in children younger than five years old.

The committee concluded that due to concerns about the reliability of current screening tools and insufficient evidence showing improved long-term outcomes for children diagnosed through universal screening compared to those identified via clinical pathways, it does not currently recommend such screenings for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool children under five years.

Additionally, the department mentioned it is ‘currently carefully considering’ insights from the independent ADHD taskforce report, commissioned by NHS England in 2024. This report champions the enhancement of early detection of neurodivergent children and youth to provide personalized support and address escalating needs.

The Department of Health and Social Care further noted: “Building on the taskforce’s work, the government aims to gain a deeper understanding of the increasing demand and to ensure that individuals receive appropriate support at the right time.”

“On 4 December 2025, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care launched an Independent Review into Prevalence and Support for Mental Health Conditions, ADHD and Autism.

“This independent review will inform our approach to enabling people with ADHD and autistic people of all ages to have the right support in place to enable them to live well in their communities. The final report will be published in the summer.”

The petition titled ‘Fund mandatory neurodevelopmental screening for all children’ has already drawn in over 27,000 signatures. If it reaches 100,000, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.

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