Post Diagnostic Support for Neurodivergent Individuals

The Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP) are looking to issue a contract for the delivery of post diagnostic support to adults with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, predominately Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The purpose of this PIN is to engage with the market to design a service which will meet the growing demand in a sustainable, outcome focused and viable way.

It is intended that organisations will engage with EHSCP to develop the requirement. All providers are invited to engage with this process to support a new contract which will be tendered.

All future communication will be directed though this PIN and to ensure your organisations participation and updates on this process, you should note interest against this PIN. The City of Edinburgh Council along with the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership are interested in working with organisations on reviewing and developing the specification for this contract to ensure that post diagnostic support for people with neurodevelopmental disorders, predominately Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) receive the support they require.

It is currently proposed that the following elements will be included in post diagnostic support provision: a) Group based social learning programmes to improve social interaction b) Offer access to peer group support leading to opportunities for natural friendships and ongoing support networks to develop c) Individual sessions for individuals who find group activities difficult d) Interventions that improve social inclusion for example support with employment activities, volunteering, housing support and social activities e) Support to individuals to develop strategies following diagnosis that includes self-management plans to promote and maintain self-efficiency Provision should also include: a) Waiting well approach – consideration of offering support to individuals who are on a waiting list and waiting for a diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental disorders, predominantly Autism or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Offering support at this stage in the diagnostic pathway will ensure that individuals are supported to manage or improve their mental health and can stop any negative lifestyle issues developing in the intervening period The purpose of this PIN is to engage with the market and gain insight into the likely level of interest from providers in the EHSCP Requirement.

The structure of the requirement will be part of future discussions with organisations who note interest in this PIN. It is anticipated that the contract will commence on 1st April 2026.