Plans for 'all-age pathway' for adult autism and ADHD diagnosis by 2029

Health minister lays out £2.8 million proposal for 'multi-year transformation programme'

The health minister has outlined plans to introduce services that would allow for diagnosis and better support for neurodivergent people on the Island.

Currently there is no assessment route for ADHD or autism for adults not diagnosed in childhood.

In June 2025, Tynwald members approved a resolution which asked the Department of Health and Social Care and Manx Care to plan for the introduction of all age support and diagnostic pathway for ADHD and autism. It had been brought forward by Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher.

Presenting her report to Tynwald, Minister Claire Christian outlined the plan for a 'multi-year transformation programme', subject to £2.8 million of funding being approved.

The first step, as approved by members, is to create a diagnostic centre for adults by 1 April 2027 with the aim to have a fully functional all-age pathway by 2029.

The minister added: "The 2029 time frame may feel some distance away, but it reflects the reality of the workforce, the investment and the system redesign needed to build a pathway that is sustainable and effective.

"It also reflects the wider journey our society must take, a journey towards a greater understanding, acceptance and everyday inclusion.

"Building a pathway is not only about services, it is also about creating a culture where neurodivergent people are recognised, supported and valued in their daily lives."

On the money required to fulfil the proposal, Minister Christian says: "I appreciate that the headline figure of 2.8 million will attract attention. But let me be clear, this pathway cannot be delivered by simply asking already overstretched frontline teams to do more.

"As the report states, delivering this change will require dedicated resource with substantial clinical leadership, coordinated multi-agency working and meaningful involvement with the third sector and the public.

"If we want a functioning pathway by 2029, we must invest in the project support, the clinical expertise and system redesign required to build it."

During the debate, Ms Faragher congratulated the Department for a "clear-eyed and honest appraisal about where we're at now", but criticised the time frame, saying: "For some people currently waiting on diagnosis, 2029 isn't a plan, it's a delay."

Ms Faragher put forward an amendment asking for detailed and costed funding proposals, including timelines and anticipated outcomes, which should be brought forward for Tynwald approval.

She said: "My original motion didn't ask for a pathway in principle. It asked that funding requirements be set out so that this Court could properly assess and approve what's needed to deliver it.