careadhd.co.uk

I chose CARE ADHD in March 2025 based on their advertised wait times, which at the time (February 20

I chose CARE ADHD in March 2025 based on their advertised wait times, which at the time (February 2025) stated a 5-day wait and that 95% of patients received an assessment appointment within 2 weeks. This was a key factor in my decision.

In reality, this was not my experience. I was referred in March 2025 but did not receive my assessment date until July 2025. My assessment took place on 3 September 2025, and I was diagnosed on 9 September 2025.

Following this, I did not receive my titration forms until 17 December 2025. Despite completing all required documents on the same day, I have still not started treatment.

CARE ADHD initially stated a wait time of 12–16 weeks from completion of titration forms. However, this has now been extended, with their website indicating that patients currently on the waiting list may not hear back until between April and July 2026. This would mean a total wait of approximately 18 to 32+ weeks from when I submitted my forms—significantly longer than originally indicated.

It is also concerning that these changing wait times were not clearly communicated at the time I joined. External sources such as ADHD UK listed significantly shorter timelines (around 6 weeks from assessment to medication), which does not reflect my experience at all.

In addition, from reviewing public forums, there appear to be significant inconsistencies in how patients are being progressed. For example, multiple individuals diagnosed later (November–December 2025) report receiving titration-related contact at the same time as or earlier than others diagnosed months prior. Some have also reported being given much shorter estimated timelines (e.g. around 4 weeks post-forms) which were not adhered to, while others appear to have progressed more quickly after submitting complaints.

While I understand these are anecdotal reports, they suggest a lack of transparency and consistency in how the waiting list is managed, which raises further concerns about whether patients are being prioritised fairly or in line with what has been communicated.

Since my diagnosis in September 2025, it has now been nearly 7 months without treatment. I have contacted CARE ADHD multiple times and have only received vague responses regarding my position in the queue. I was told prioritisation would be based on assessment date, but this does not appear to be happening in practice.

The discrepancy between the advertised wait times and the actual service provided feels misleading, and the lack of transparency has been extremely frustrating—particularly for patients who are already struggling and seeking support following diagnosis.

I would appreciate a clear and honest update on my position in the queue and a realistic timeline for treatment. If this is not resolved, I am prepared to escalate this complaint through formal channels, including ISCAS, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and, if applicable, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.

Date of experience: Mar 24, 2026