ADHD UK has announced plans to take legal action against the West Yorkshire NHS integrated care board (ICB) due to its controversial decision to impose a minimum two-year wait for assessments related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. The charity claims this policy is unlawful and has indicated it will seek a judicial review if the board does not reverse its decision.

Background

The West Yorkshire ICB implemented the two-year minimum wait this year, impacting thousands of individuals in Leeds, Bradford, Kirklees, Calderdale, and Wakefield who may be seeking assessments for ADHD or autism. This decision is part of a broader trend, as the Guardian reported that West Yorkshire is one of four ICBs—alongside Devon, Somerset, and North East and North Cumbria—to have introduced such waiting periods amid rising costs associated with the increasing demand for assessments.

Allegations Against West Yorkshire ICB

ADHD UK alleges that the West Yorkshire ICB did not adhere to proper procedures, claiming that the board:

  • Breached equalities legislation
  • Denied patients their legal right to choose non-NHS care
  • Failed to involve patients, carers, or the public in the decision-making process
  • Contravened NHS contract regulations