Meeting of the Parliament 11 December 2025
I appreciate the problems. In emphasising the importance of a needs-based approach, I want to be absolutely crystal clear that I recognise the importance that is placed on diagnosis. I would not want my remarks to be misconstrued in any way, whether unintentionally or intentionally, nor to be suggestive of any language that relates to notions of overdiagnosis. I want to be very clear about the approach. My focus is on ensuring that people can access support as quickly as possible and that diagnosis should not act as a barrier to or means of gatekeeping that. I recognise that, for many, great importance is placed on diagnosis for identity and self-understanding and, in some cases—when it comes to ADHD in particular—for access to medication. We recognise the need to address all those issues quickly. However, as I have said, we need to do that with sensitivity and rigour, recognising the complex and diverse nature of the issue.
Members have raised the importance of pathways, including adult pathways. We are committed to ensuring that adults receive support that is as consistent and responsive as possible. Recent work is helping us to move firmly in that direction. That is why we have fully accepted the recommendations of the adult neurodevelopmental pathways report and are working with partners on implementation. Our autistic adult support fund and our investment in the national autism implementation team are already supporting more flexible, needs-based approaches for adults across Scotland.
Rightly, members have emphasised the lack of robust national data. Improving data is essential if we are to plan effectively, understand unmet need and support targeted investment.
Daniel Johnson rose—