NHS Forth Valley has axed its Adult Autism Assessment Team (AAAT), leaving nearly 900 people on its waiting list without access to diagnosis and support. Those affected have received letters informing them that they will no longer be seen, and no new referrals will be accepted.
Speaking to STV News, Cat Thomson, who has been waiting for an autism diagnosis for almost two years, expressed their frustration: “I immediately threw the letter down. I was filled with a mixture of frustration, anger, disappointment, upset. My head immediately went to my friends in the same position, some waiting longer than me.”
The AAAT was established in 2019 to help manage rising demand for neurodevelopmental assessments. However, with the recent departure of two part-time staff, NHS Forth Valley determined that continuing the service in its current form was not viable.
The decision has sparked backlash from local autism support groups. Amelia Connolly, chairwoman of Neuroclacks, told STV News: “I was horrified. You need adjustments to do anything in life—school, university, college, or work.” Neuroclacks founder Hannah Coyle added: “I was heartbroken. This is a vital service, and so many people rely on it.”
Trade union UNISON has also criticised the decision. David O’Connor, regional organiser, said to STV News: “Staff have been outraged. The service was created to alleviate pressure on existing services, and now that pressure is being reintroduced.”
Over 3,500 people have signed a petition demanding the service be reinstated.
In a statement to STV News, Joanna MacDonald, interim chief officer of Clackmannanshire & Stirling Health and Social Care Partnership, defended the move: “Like similar services across the country, the AAAT has faced very high demand, resulting in long waits. This decision is not due to budget cuts but to ensure the most efficient use of resources.”
