Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that can interfere with daily life and relationships, including work or school performance. ADHD is not simply a behavioural issue, but a medical condition that can be managed with the right support and treatment.

You can read more about ADHD on the NHS website here.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of ADHD that affect daily life, it’s important to seek help. Our GPs can guide you through the process and, if required, refer you to specialist services.

ADHD can sometimes occur alongside other conditions, including anxiety, depression, substance misuse, mood disorders and personality disorders.

Please read the information below to understand your options if you would like to be referred to an ADHD specialist. 

How can I access a referral?

If you are concerned you may have ADHD you should make an appointment with the GP to discuss your concerns. Dr Fakhoury is our ADHD and neurodiversity lead at the practice and has an interest in this area.

Please note: GPs are unable to diagnose ADHD or initiate ADHD medication. Assessment and treatment are provided through specialist services.

You will need to decide which pathway you would like to use before your referral is made.

Leeds Confederation ADHD Service

The Leeds Adult ADHD Service is provided by the Leeds GP Confederation.

For information about the local service, including referral pathways, waiting times and treatment options, please click here.

Please note that referral arrangements and waiting times may change over time.

What is the Right to Choose (RTC) pathway?

The NHS Right to Choose (RTC) pathway allows eligible patients in England to choose an alternative NHS-funded provider for ADHD assessment and treatment.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, the NHS will fund both your assessment and any treatment provided by your chosen service.

Many patients choose to use a Right to Choose provider because waiting times may be shorter than those offered by local services.

You can learn more about the Right to Choose pathway and ADHD referrals through ADHD UK.

If your GP agrees that a referral is appropriate, please let us know which provider you would like to be referred to.

Right to Choose Providers

Several providers offer NHS-funded ADHD assessments through the Right to Choose pathway, including:

Please note that waiting times and service availability can change regularly.

Please be aware that not all Right to Choose providers offer medication titration. We recommend taking this into consideration when choosing a provider.
If you are assessed and diagnosed by a provider that does not offer medication titration through the Right to Choose pathway, and you later decide that you would like to explore medication treatment, you may need to be referred to another provider that offers this service.

Shared Care Agreements

If ADHD medication is recommended, the specialist service will usually begin and stabilise treatment during a period known as titration.

Once treatment is stable, the specialist may ask the GP practice to enter into a Shared Care Agreement.

A Shared Care Agreement is a formal arrangement between the ADHD specialist and the GP practice that allows ongoing prescribing to be undertaken in primary care, while specialist support and oversight remain available.

Please note that Shared Care Agreements are considered on an individual basis and must meet local prescribing guidance and safety requirements.

Support While Waiting for Assessment

Waiting for an ADHD assessment can be challenging. There are resources available that may help you better understand ADHD and develop strategies while waiting for a specialist assessment.

Waiting Well provides information, resources and support for people awaiting neurodevelopmental assessment and diagnosis.

MindMate Neurodiversity Information Hub

MindMate provides information and support for neurodivergent individuals, families, carers and professionals.

Leeds ADHD Support Group

Leeds ADHD Suport Group is a community for people in Leeds who have, or suspect they have, ADHD, their families, and anyone interested in supporting the ADHD community.

Other Useful Resources

ADHD UK provides evidence-based information about ADHD, Right to Choose providers, workplace support and living well with ADHD.

Mind provides information and support relating to mental health and wellbeing.