Chichester MP, Jess Brown-Fuller, highlights waiting times for children’s community health services

Jess Brown-Fuller recently visited Westhampnett Child Development Centre to discuss the crisis in waiting times for children’s community health services. 

The Child Development Centre (CDC) provides paediatric physiotherapy and occupational therapy, alongside a variety of services aimed at supporting children with special needs. These include assessments and developmental assistance for speech and language difficulties, as well as motor and sensory impairments. 

During the visit, Jess raised concerns about waiting lists in children’s health services. Latest NHS data reveals a staggering 310, 041 children and young people were waiting for community health services across the country in August 2025. Of these children, 167, 410 have been waiting longer than 18 weeks – just shy of an alarming 54%. 

In Sussex, a particular challenge lies in diagnostic waiting times, particularly for autism and ADHD assessments. The ADHD pathway for school-aged children can be several years, potentially taking children beyond school and delaying them from accessing much-needed support. 

These problems are compounded by pressures on specialist staff. Initial Health Assessments (IHAs) must be completed within 20 working days of children entering care and can only be carried out by paediatricians, diverting their capacity away from other essential children’s services. Meanwhile, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) depend upon input from a range of professionals including paediatricians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists. Whilst both IHAs and EHCPs are essential safeguards for vulnerable children, the current system places unsustainable pressure on already stretched services. 

Following the visit, Jess said: 

“Our local teams are doing an excellent job delivering vital services for the community under real pressure.” 

“Government targets have long focused on reducing waits for hospital treatment, while community health services, particularly for children and young people, have been overlooked.” 

“The Government’s 10 Year Health Plan aims to shift more care into the community, making it crucial that more investment and capacity is delivered to these already stretched services.” 

Jess at Westhampnett Child Development Centre