Autism and ADHD Support in Gateshead

Healthwatch Gateshead undertook a survey to understand the experiences of post-diagnostic support for adults aged 18-24 and those aged 50 and over in Gateshead who have received a diagnosis of autism and/or ADHD. Healthwatch Gateshead’s aim was to explore what support individuals received following diagnosis, what barriers they encountered and what improvements they believe are needed to strengthen services locally.  33 people responded.

Overall, the findings demonstrate that diagnosis alone does not lead to consistent or meaningful post-diagnostic support. While some younger adults reported receiving support through education or employment settings, this was often short-term and disrupted by poor transition planning. Most respondents aged 50 and over reported receiving little or no formal support after diagnosis. 

Across both age groups, barriers included dismissive responses from GPs, lack of appropriate information and signposting, hard to access support opportunities and inconsistent medication or shared care pathways. Shared care agreements are formal agreements between specialist services, for example psychiatry or neurodevelopmental teams, and a person’s GP. Supportive relationships with understanding managers, colleagues, clinicians and peer networks were frequently identified as the most helpful sources of support, often compensating for gaps in statutory and healthcare provision.