Alliance East Belfast MLA Peter McReynolds has welcomed the release of the ADHD Needs Assessment Report, published on 12 February, which proposes the establishment of a formally commissioned Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) service across Northern Ireland.

The report follows a petition presented to the NI Assembly by Mr McReynolds in 2024, which highlighted the urgent need for consistent support for those living with the condition. The MLA stated that the findings provide a clear roadmap for the Department of Health to address long-standing gaps in provision.

Peter McReynolds MLA said: "In 2024, I presented a petition to the NI Assembly calling for the commissioning of ADHD services throughout Northern Ireland. Today, we finally have the report that flowed from that petition."

He continued: "This report has been long-awaited by the ADHD community, and at long last, its recommendations give the Minister and his Department something to work towards. For too long, ADHD services here have been left on the back foot." Mr McReynolds highlighted the personal toll the lack of services has taken on individuals, noting that many people in Northern Ireland are currently struggling without a formal diagnosis or are being forced into debt to access private healthcare.

"The lack of services available in NI has left people requiring vital support in need. Many are falling through the cracks, living without a diagnosis, struggling with their condition, while others are getting into debt to get the help they need, and some are even being misdiagnosed," he explained.

Concluding his remarks, the East Belfast representative urged the Health Minister to move swiftly from assessment to action.

"The report confirms what we know. It's clear just how vitally important these measures are. Their implementation will contribute greatly to improving the quality of life for so many in NI who are struggling and have been for a long time. Alliance has long called for the commissioning of ADHD services in NI. It's time for the Minister to act on this report and deliver its recommendations so we can provide the much needed support for those living with the condition."