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Written question asked by Vikki Slade (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 10 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 15 September 2026 (named day). A holding answer was provided on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. A substantive answer was provided by Alison McGovern (Labour) on Friday, 18 September 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Mental Health Services

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what mental health care systems in England require a clinical diagnosis prior to treatment; and what assessment she has made of the potential impact of this requirement on (a) young people’s waiting times for mental health treatment and (b) the effectiveness of the treatment they receive.

Answer

The interim report of the independent review into mental health conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism found that access to support is too often slow, fragmented, and heavily dependent on having a diagnosis. Where support depends heavily on a formal diagnosis, demand for assessment can outstrip capacity, contributing to long waits, repeated assessments, and pressure on services. Diagnosis remains essential to inform treatment and enhance understanding, but the review is considering how people can receive appropriate support earlier and according to need. Its final report will make recommendations for the Government, the health system, and wider public services.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
28972
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Diagnosis Mental health services Young people
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk