Our latest report shows how families’ experiences have driven real improvements in autism and ADHD services across Birmingham—supporting the NHS 10-Year Plan’s ambition for more personalised, preventative, and joined-up care.
This report highlights how feedback from families has helped shape real improvements to autism and ADHD services across Birmingham — while also making clear that significant challenges remain.
Children, young people, and their families shared their experiences of long waits, limited support, and poor communication during the assessment journey. In response, Healthwatch Birmingham worked with Birmingham and Solihull NHS (BSOL ICB) and Birmingham Community Healthcare Trust (BCHC) to help deliver changes that are already having a positive impact.
Key developments include:
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A new Autism Hub, offering a single point of contact for families and professionals.
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Targeted support for families while they wait, including school-based help and clearer guidance.
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Greater focus on co-production, with families shaping resources, letters, surveys, and service planning.
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The PINS project, providing neurodiversity training in over 40 schools.
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A developing Neurodevelopmental Future Model to create more inclusive, joined-up care.
While these steps are promising, many families still face delays, gaps in support, and a lack of clarity — particularly during transitions or in areas where new services are not yet available. Continued work is essential to ensure that every child and young person receives the timely, compassionate, and personalised care they need.
We continue to work with Pathfinder to gather ongoing feedback from parents and carers navigating the SEND system.
Download the SEND feedback leaflet below to share or leave feedback about services like Forward Thinking Birmingham, CAMHS, and Birmingham Healthy Minds via our Feedback Centre.
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| SEND Feedback Leaflet | Download File (pdf 3.77 MB) |
| ASD and ADHD Impact Report | Download File (pdf 2.53 MB) |