National Autistic Society responds to Farage’s claims about SEND diagnoses being overdone

The National Autistic Society (NAS) has strongly condemned comments made by Nigel Farage, Leader of Reform UK, after he suggested that doctors were “massively over-diagnosing” children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and mental health conditions. Farage’s remarks, made during a press conference on April 24, 2025, have sparked outrage among experts and advocates, with the NAS calling them “fake news” and accusing Farage of spreading misinformation.

Farage, in his statement, claimed that the overdiagnosis of SEND and mental health issues was creating a “class of victims” in Britain. He argued that such diagnoses, particularly for children under 18 and adults over 18, were often made hastily, sometimes through Zoom consultations with family GPS. According to Farage, these diagnoses are incorrectly administered, leading to a generation of individuals who may struggle to overcome their conditions.

The Reform UK leader further criticised the involvement of GPS in the diagnostic process, suggesting that it was inappropriate for family doctors, who may have long-standing relationships with patients, to make such decisions. “It’s quite hard for me as your GP to say no,” Farage said, implying that family doctors might be pressured into providing diagnoses they were not equipped to handle. He proposed that these assessments should instead be made independently.

However, the National Autistic Society was quick to refute Farage’s claims. Mel Merritt, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the NAS, described his comments as “wildly inaccurate,” pointing out that no one receives an autism diagnosis through their GP. “This is just incorrect, wrong, fake news,” Merritt said, stressing that Farage’s remarks were based on misinformation. She continued, highlighting the severe difficulties that autistic individuals and those with SEND face in accessing support.

Merritt explained that children with SEND, as well as disabled adults, often experience long delays and struggles in obtaining the necessary support, including diagnosis and education services. “They are not victims who are being ‘overdiagnosed’,” Merritt stated, urging politicians to refrain from making political points at the expense of vulnerable individuals.

The NAS also emphasised the harsh reality that many families and individuals with SEND face when seeking support. Far from being overdiagnosed, these individuals often endure protracted battles just to receive basic assistance in areas like healthcare, education, and social care. The NAS expressed concern that Farage’s comments would only exacerbate stigma, making it even harder for people with SEND to get the help they need.

In response to Farage’s comments, the NAS called for politicians to focus on the real issues at hand and to stand up for autistic and disabled constituents. “Spreading misinformation only perpetuates stigma and makes life harder,” Merritt concluded.

Farage’s comments come at a time when the UK is grappling with the challenges of providing adequate support for those with SEND. With many families still waiting for assessments and services, the debate around SEND diagnosis and support has never been more crucial. The NAS has been a leading voice in pushing for better services and greater understanding of the needs of people with SEND, including autism.

The incident underscores a wider issue of public figures making unfounded claims about complex health and social care issues, potentially undermining efforts to improve support for vulnerable groups. As politicians like Farage engage in these discussions, experts and advocacy groups are calling for a more informed and compassionate approach to the challenges faced by people with SEND.

THE GUARDIAN

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s recent comments about the over-diagnosis of children with special educational needs (SEND) have sparked controversy. Farage claimed that doctors were “massively over-diagnosing” conditions like autism and mental health disorders. The National Autistic Society swiftly condemned these remarks, calling them “wildly inaccurate” and accusing Farage of perpetuating stigma against disabled individuals.

The Liberal Democrats argue that this indicates Reform UK’s plans to cut SEND funding if they gain control of local councils. Farage’s comments have ignited wider concerns over the party’s stance on disability services and education.

Meanwhile, UK health secretary Wes Streeting addressed concerns following a Supreme Court ruling on the treatment of trans women in NHS wards. He assured that the ruling would not result in trans women being placed in male wards, reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing dignified and respectful care for all patients.

This continues to unfold as both parties navigate sensitive issues in UK politics.

THE INDEPENDENT

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has sparked outrage after claiming that GPS are “overdiagnosing” children with special educational needs (SEND) and adults with mental health issues. Speaking at a press conference in Dover, Farage suggested that such diagnoses, often done through Zoom consultations, create a “class of victims” reliant on benefits. The National Autistic Society condemned his remarks as “wildly inaccurate” and misleading, stressing that obtaining a SEND diagnosis involves lengthy, complex processes, not quick assessments by GPS.

Charities, including Mind, have also criticised Farage for stigmatising vulnerable groups. Mind’s Minesh Patel highlighted the dangers of ignoring the root causes of mental health issues, while Labour MP Peter Swallow slammed Farage’s comments as indicative of a lack of understanding. Liberal Democrat education spokesperson Munira Wilson warned that such rhetoric could lead to cuts in vital SEND funding, worsening the crisis faced by families and children in need of support.