Health Secretary Wes Streeting has commissioned a major independent review into the diagnosis of mental health conditions, autism, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The move comes as the government seeks to address a dramatic rise in the number of working-age people claiming health-related welfare benefits.
Addressing the Surge in Welfare Claims
The review is a direct response to escalating figures showing that 4.4 million people of working age are now claiming sickness or incapacity benefits. This represents a staggering increase of 1.2 million claimants since 2019. A particularly sharp rise has been noted among 16 to 34-year-olds who are unable to work due to long-term sickness linked to mental health conditions.
According to reports, Mr Streeting has tasked leading clinical experts with investigating whether common human emotions and experiences have become "over-pathologised". The goal is to examine the clinical evidence behind the rising diagnosis rates.
Clinical Experts to Lead the Investigation
The review panel will be chaired by Professor Peter Fonagy, a prominent clinical psychologist at University College London who specialises in child mental health. He will be supported by vice-chairman Sir Simon Wessely, the former president of the Royal College of Psychiatry. The formal launch is scheduled for Thursday.
Professor Fonagy stated the panel would examine evidence from research, clinicians, and people with lived experience to understand the drivers of rising demand in a "grounded way".
Part of a Broader Welfare Reform Agenda
This initiative is a key component of the government's wider strategy to manage the growing national welfare bill. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently signalled a renewed push for welfare reform, arguing the current system is "trapping people, not just in poverty, but out of work".
The government had previously faced opposition from its own backbenchers over plans to reform disability benefits, including for those with mental health conditions, forcing a retreat earlier this year.
In his comments, Wes Streeting struck a balanced tone, acknowledging his personal understanding of the devastation caused by poor mental health and the struggle to secure a diagnosis. "I also know, from speaking to clinicians, how the diagnosis of these conditions is sharply rising," he said. "We must look at this through a strictly clinical lens... That’s the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support."
