Following the news that Right to Choose Pathways had been suspended we initially halted any new request for referrals we had and advised patients we would update when we knew more, we can now confirm that we can continue to take referrals however please read the following information:
Updates from the ICB regarding Right to Choose providers (January–March 2026):
- New referrals are not stopped or paused.
- Some providers have been asked to revise their activity plans.
- Providers will continue to see anyone who already has a booked appointment or is deemed clinically urgent.
- Families without a booked appointment will not be offered appointments between January and March 2026; this will be reviewed in April 2026 (new financial year).
- Referrals can still be made but will not progress or result in appointments before April.
- All existing referrals can remain on waiting lists. However, if a patient comes off the waiting list, they would need to restart the process—so families should be encouraged to remain on the list.
Please see the link below to the ICB webpage where further information is available. This page can also be shared with families and includes details on how to raise a complaint if they wish to do so:
https://northeastnorthcumbria.nhs.uk/here-to-help-you/health-advice-and-support/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-and-autism/
