NEW ADHD AND AUTISM POLICY APPROVED FOR COVENTRY AND WARWICKSHIRE
20 March 2026
NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) has approved a new all age commissioning policy for ADHD and autism, which will be implemented between April and May 2026.
The policy was approved by the ICB Board on 18th March 2026 and you can view details of the meeting here.
This new policy, when implemented, will bring the temporary emergency ADHD policy, introduced in May 2025, to an end. This will restore access to ADHD assessments for adults aged 25 and over and sets out a clearer, safer and more consistent pathway for referral, triage and diagnostic assessment for people of all ages.
Aligned with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance and national best practice, the policy sets out minimum clinical standards for all NHS and independent sector providers. This includes requirements for safe post-diagnostic prescribing and follow-up arrangements.
The policy also defines clear eligibility criteria, approved referral routes and the minimum information required for referrals to be accepted. Where clinically appropriate, the policy also supports combined ADHD and autism assessments, helping reduce duplication and improve overall patient experience.
A comprehensive implementation plan has been developed to ensure consistent uptake across the system. Further information will be shared once the new policy is in place to inform people of new access arrangements.