Ryan FowlerRedArc has reported a significant surge in demand for support with neurodiversity, ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April. The nurse-led support organisation saw a 55% year-on-year increase in referrals in 2023, and nearly double the number of cases in 2024 compared to 2022.
The increase reflects both rising awareness and a lack of access to timely, mainstream support. RedArc points to lengthy NHS waiting lists and the visibility of public figures such as Christine McGuinness, Melanie Sykes and Tallulah Willis, who have recently received late diagnoses and spoken openly about their experiences.
Christine Husbands, commercial director at RedArc, said: “Support for neurodiversity should be offered, but it needs to be provided by professionals experienced in supporting neurodiversity, who fully understand the range of conditions that fall under the collective term. One in five people have a neurodevelopmental condition, such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia or Tourette’s syndrome and we’re pleased that this group are reaching out for the support they deserve.”
RedArc’s service offers personalised, long-term support via registered nurses experienced in neurodiversity. This includes one-to-one guidance for adults and children (via their parents), help with NHS and private assessment pathways, advice on navigating diagnostic criteria and NICE guidelines, and signposting to relevant charities, occupational therapy or counselling. Support also includes practical advice on routines, sleep, and coping strategies for school and the workplace.
With NHS waiting times continuing to pose a barrier, RedArc said that understanding the “Right to Choose” in England has been particularly valuable for patients. This allows individuals to request to be seen elsewhere if local mental health waiting times are too long. For those seeking private assessments, RedArc ensures that patients receive guidance so that diagnoses and treatment plans are recognised and supported within the NHS.
Husbands added: “Organisations that provide support for physical and mental health must now really assess whether they are doing enough in terms of support for neurodiversity as well. This is a hugely growing area, and individuals with autism or any other complex neurodiverse condition, need to be able to access comprehensive support from specialists, without a long and agonising wait.”
