Politicians have criticised the lack of adult autism diagnostic services and called for improvements from the DHSC.
Minister Claire Christian faced repeated questioning over the absence of NHS pathways for adult assessments, forcing many to seek costly private diagnoses.
Ann Corlett (Douglas Central) highlighted the crisis, stating: “There is a total lack of diagnosis for adults. Is the minister aware of the prohibitive cost of private diagnosis? It’s unaffordable for so many.”
Ms Christian acknowledged the problem, replying: “The cost to have it privately diagnosed is extremely costly. This is one reason this strategy was established.”
However, she confirmed the promised all-age diagnosis pathway, a key goal of the 10-year Autism Strategy launched in March 2024, remains in development.
Lack
Manx Labour leader Joney Faragher pressed for clarity: “What steps are being taken to ensure accessible assessments for all age groups? We have a complete lack of diagnosis currently for adults.”
The minister pointed to £4 million invested in child mental health services but offered no timeline for adult provision.
Liberal Vannin’s Lawrie Hooper also raised concerns about funding: “The mandate admits autism services may ‘outstrip the baseline budget’. Where is the money for adult diagnoses coming from?”
Ms Christian confirmed £150,500 had been allocated for first-year actions, stating “very little has been drawn down” as most work so far required no additional funding.
Further updates are expected by October 2025.
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