Young people’s Pip claims for ADHD and autism ‘rising fastest in affluent areas’
Summary
Claims for disability benefits related to ADHD and autism among young people have risen fastest in wealthy parts of England since the pandemic. Researchers say this likely shows that richer families have quicker access to diagnoses and are better able to manage the claims process.Key Facts
- Disability benefit claims for ADHD and autism are generally higher in poorer areas, but the fastest increases are in richer areas like Wokingham, Warwick, Hampshire, and Surrey.
- Wealthier families may skip NHS waiting lists by paying privately for ADHD and autism diagnoses.
- The gap in benefit claims between rich and poor areas is getting smaller because claim growth is faster in wealthy places.
- The rate of claims for ADHD and autism is higher among white people than other ethnic groups.
- Surrey Heath saw a 630% increase in ADHD and autism claims since 2019, while some poorer towns had smaller increases.
- This pattern is unique to ADHD and autism and is not seen in other conditions like learning disabilities or anxiety.
- About 205,000 young people aged 16-24 received these benefits in April 2024, costing the government £1.36 billion in 2025-26.
- The rise in claims is part of a broader debate on disability benefit costs and the fairness of the diagnosis and claims process.
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