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Written question asked by Lord Adebowale (Crossbench) on Monday, 20 April 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 May 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Friday, 24 April 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Independent Review into Mental Health Conditions, ADHD and Autism

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that the final report of the Independent Review into Mental Health Conditions, ADHD and Autism examines the relationship between neurodevelopmental under-identification and long-term disengagement from education and employment.

Answer

The Young People and Work independent investigation, led by Alan Milburn, considers the drivers of the rise in young people who are out of employment, education, and training (NEET). Increased reporting of ill health as a primary reason for being NEET among young people since 2015 is driven primarily by mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions.

The Independent Review into Mental Health Conditions, ADHD and Autism has been investigating changes in the diagnosis of these conditions and will be cross-referenced in the forthcoming first report of the Young People and Work review. The two reviews will need to continue to work together to consider the effects of under-diagnosis on employment and educational outcomes.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL16517
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Education Employment Neurodiversity Independent Review into Mental Health Conditions, ADHD and Autism
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk