The state of mental health services in Birmingham is reaching critical levels, with public systems struggling to meet the rising demand for care. A combination of soaring waiting lists, increasing need, and cuts to public spending has left many families and individuals without the support they desperately need. This crisis is particularly evident in the case of children awaiting autism and ADHD assessments, as well as the wider population facing mental health challenges exacerbated by systemic funding failures.

At AG & Co Health, we recognize the urgent need for accessible, high-quality mental health services. We aim to bridge the gaps left by an overstretched public system, offering timely support to those who can’t afford to wait.

A surge in demand, but no increase in resources

Recent data paints a troubling picture. The number of children in the West Midlands waiting more than 13 weeks for an autism assessment has surged by 112% over the last four years, with almost 5,000 children now on waiting lists, compared to 2,000 in 2020. This delay in diagnosis and intervention is deeply concerning.

Delays in autism diagnosis mean children miss out on early intervention, which is critical to their development and long-term outcomes. There is growing frustration at the systemic contradictions. The knowledge is there—early intervention is impactful and has such a positive effect on the child and their family. Yet, the resources to make it happen are missing.

Cuts in public spending and their impact

This crisis cannot be separated from the wider context of public spending cuts. Over the past decade, Birmingham has experienced significant reductions in funding for mental health services. Despite growing awareness of the importance of mental health, funding has not kept pace with demand.

For example:

• Local authorities have faced substantial budget cuts, limiting their ability to fund mental health initiatives and support services.
• NHS mental health services are struggling to recruit and retain staff due to limited funding, contributing to the growing backlog of cases.
• Community mental health services, which often provide essential early support, have been scaled back, leaving accessible local options.

In 2023, Birmingham City Council declared itself effectively bankrupt, announcing it could no longer meet its financial obligations. This has compounded existing challenges, with cuts affecting essential services, including those that support mental health and wellbeing.

The real-world impact on families

For families across Birmingham, these systemic failures are more than just statistics—they are lived realities. Children waiting for autism and ADHD assessments are not just losing time; they are losing opportunities to thrive. Delays in diagnosis mean delays in accessing school accommodations, therapy, and other critical interventions.

Parents are left feeling helpless as their children struggle with anxiety, depression, and behavioural challenges, often misunderstood by teachers and peers. In the case of older individuals, untreated mental health conditions can lead to long-term consequences, including unemployment, substance abuse, and strained relationships.

A Birmingham mum Sabiha’s experience is sadly far too common. Her son Adam waited months for an autism diagnosis, missing out on early interventions that could have transformed his school experience and social development. As Sabiha put it, "It feels like the system is robbing our children of the chance to reach their full potential."
 

The strain on NHS

The NHS, though a cornerstone of the UK’s healthcare system, is struggling to cope with the demand for mental health services. While the NHS is committed to supporting mental health, the resources available are simply insufficient.

In Birmingham, patients seeking mental health support face months-long waiting lists for therapy and counselling. Crisis services, intended to support those at their most vulnerable moments, are frequently overstretched. According to a 2022 report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), some mental health services in Birmingham were rated as requiring improvement due to under-resourcing and high demand.

The strain on the NHS is not a failure of intent but a failure of funding and infrastructure. As Laura Free from Althea Soft rightly pointed out, these delays hinder intervention and exacerbate the mental health challenges faced by children and families. “Without proper care and monitoring,” she said, “it will become harder to provide the care that these children desperately need and deserve.”

Bridging the gap

In the face of these challenges AG & Co Health are aiming to offer much-needed support. We recognise that waiting months—or even years—for an assessment or therapy is not an option for many families.

At AG & Co Health, our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality mental health services tailored to the needs of individuals and families. Our new office at Bristol Road, Birmingham, is a testament to our commitment to the community.

Our goal is to ensure that no one feels abandoned by the system. With shorter waiting times and personalised care, we help families access the support they need without delay.

The need for systemic change

While AG & Co Health can play a crucial role in addressing immediate needs, the broader system requires reform. Policymakers must prioritize mental health funding, ensuring that services are adequately resourced to meet demand and staff are adequately trained to offer evidence based, gold standard assessments in line with NICE guidance. 

Key changes should include:

• Increased Funding for Mental Health Services: Allocating more resources to the NHS and local authorities to expand capacity and reduce waiting times.
• Streamlined Processes: Simplifying referral and assessment procedures to improve access to care.
• Staff Recruitment and Retention: Investing in the mental health workforce to ensure services can meet the growing demand.
• Support for Community-Based Services: Strengthening local initiatives that provide early intervention and support.

At AG & Co Health, we believe in empowering individuals and families to take control of their mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking an autism assessment for your child, counselling for yourself, or support for a loved one, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a free consultation appointment.