A council review has found a sharp rise in school pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs across West Berkshire.
Demand for neurodiversity diagnoses has soared 215% in the last four years. Despite extra investment and more staff, average waits are now 115 weeks for ADHD assessments and 99 weeks for autism assessments.
The deep dive into how the council supports vulnerable children says the authority is missing many of its targets, blaming staffing and budget shortages.
About 10% of children under 16 in West Berkshire are living in poverty, and investigators warned cuts to youth services for 10 to 15 years were starting to show in this generation. The Government's Fair Funding review also raised concerns that West Berkshire's levels of deprivation are not being properly recognised.
Nationally, in 2023 it was estimated around one in five 8-25 year olds had a probable mental health difficulty. Locally, an estimated 1,098 primary-aged children and 1,940 11-16 year olds had a diagnosed mental health disorder in 2022/23. A further 2,616 secondary pupils were estimated to have emotional, behavioural, hyperactivity or other disorders. Hospital admissions for self-harm among 10-24 year olds were higher than the England average.
Data shows children eligible for free school meals in West Berkshire achieve a good level of development at the end of Reception at particularly low rates. The proportion of children on child protection plans and child in need plans is also above the England average.
The review looked at access to early help and specialist services, including support for those who are neurodivergent - diagnosed, awaiting assessment or neither - and heard evidence from local schools, the council's mental health support team, the Emotional Health Academy and voluntary sector partners.
Investigators said the reasons for the rise in ADHD and autism referrals are not yet known and are being researched nationally. There was a dramatic increase during and after Covid.
Recommendations include clearer communications to parents and the public about the Children and Young People's Neurodiversity services and the new pathway process, plus mapping services, facilities and activities for young people. The report suggests working with key stakeholders, including town and parish councils, to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
The review stresses that good mental health and wellbeing for all children and young people is a priority in the district's Health and Wellbeing Strategy, noting poor childhood wellbeing increases the risk of later problems such as low attainment, antisocial behaviour, substance misuse, teenage pregnancy and wider mental health issues.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
