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The Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Team
Under consideration PE2156: Improve access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment across Scotland
Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to urgently address undiagnosed and untreated ADHD by:
developing a funded national ADHD strategy
standardising ADHD diagnostic pathways
reducing waiting timesensuring equitable access to ADHD diagnosis, treatment, and support across Scotland.
Background information
Scotland faces a growing ADHD crisis, with years-long waiting times for diagnosis and treatment or no access at all due to regional funding disparities. Some areas have halted assessments entirely, leaving thousands in crisis. A postcode lottery has been created.
Untreated ADHD impacts mental health, relationships, and life opportunities. Testimonies reveal years of being passed between services, job losses, and severe mental health crises.
The Scottish Government must act urgently to:
standardise diagnostic pathways for equitable access across Scotland
fund services to reduce waiting times and improve capacity
provide post-diagnostic support, including therapy and medication
develop a national ADHD strategy to address the societal and individual impact of untreated ADHD.
Untreated ADHD is a social justice issue. Many cannot afford private diagnosis or care, making urgent action essential to end this postcode lottery and ensure fair access to ADHD services.
1,567 signatures
This petition is now under consideration
Click here for further information about the consideration of this petition.