The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT) says it is unlikely to receive a significant boost in funding to cope with rising demand for mental health services.
At a recent board meeting, trust leaders revealed that more than 9,700 patients were on the waiting list for ADHD and autism assessments as of 8 April. On average, patients are waiting nearly two years—about 92 weeks—for an appointment.
Dr Mike Knapton, a non-executive director and chair of the trust’s quality and safety committee, stressed that the trust takes the long waiting lists “very seriously.” He noted that multiple efforts are underway to try to reduce the backlog.
CPFT provides a wide range of NHS services in the community, including both physical and mental health care. It also manages Fulbourn Hospital near Cambridge and the Cavell Centre in Peterborough.
In December, the trust’s mental health services for working-age adults were rated as “requires improvement” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). While the trust’s overall rating remains “good,” the CQC report highlighted severe pressure on ADHD services and a lack of resources to meet demand.
Chief Operating Officer Holly Sutherland acknowledged that, due to the current state of NHS finances, it is “unlikely” the trust will receive much more funding. She said CPFT is now focusing on how to change how care is delivered to better serve patients, especially those in greatest need.
Trust chair Eileen Milner said referrals for ADHD and autism have grown at an “exceptional” rate. She added that this is a nationwide issue, not one unique to Cambridgeshire. At a recent meeting with other NHS trust leaders, she found that many are facing similar spikes in demand.
Milner also said that while a representative from NHS England attended the meeting, there does not yet appear to be a well-developed national plan to address the growing crisis in ADHD and autism care.
