Gateshead residents feel unsupported after receiving an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or ADHD diagnosis, according to a new report. Younger adults and those over 50 have voiced concerns about a lack of adequate support following their diagnoses.
Report Findings
A Healthwatch Gateshead report, compiled over 14 weeks through online and in-person surveys, found that a diagnosis alone does not lead to consistent or meaningful post-diagnostic support. While some younger respondents accessed support through education or employers, it was often short-term and disrupted.
Those over 50 reported little or no formal support after diagnosis. Both groups experienced dismissive responses from GPs, with 37% of over-50s saying their GP dismissed symptoms or offered no advice or signposting.
Broader Issues
Healthwatch partners noted that expectations of a diagnosis unlocking services are rarely met, and practical support is limited. Gateshead Jobcentre reported a lack of employment support for autistic individuals and difficulties for families in understanding diagnoses.
Recommendations
The report recommends establishing a clear post-diagnostic support pathway, offering psychoeducation routinely, developing a single point of access, strengthening transition planning for young adults, improving awareness among GPs and employers, and increasing transparency in medication agreements.
Psychoeducation involves educating clients and families about diagnoses, symptoms, and coping strategies.
Healthwatch acknowledged the evidence base includes only 33 responses from two age groups, which may not fully represent all autistic and ADHD adults.
