In most cases, you have a right to choose which mental health service provider you go to in England.
You have the legal right to choose which service provider and clinical team you’re referred to for your first appointment. Service providers must have a commissioning contract with any Integrated Care Board (ICB) or NHS England for the required service to supply the service to the NHS somewhere in England.
Right to Choose providers for ADHD: Adults
Right to Choose providers for ADHD: Children and Young People
Right to Choose providers for ASD: Adults
Right to Choose providers for ASD: Children and Young People
You do not have a legal right to choose if:
- You need urgent or emergency treatment
- You already receive care and treatment for the condition
- The organisation or clinical team you’ve chosen does not provide the right care for your condition
- You’re a prisoner or on temporary release from prison
- You’re detained in prescribed accommodation, such as a court, secure children’s home, secure training centre, immigration removal centre or young offender institution
- You’re detained in a secure hospital setting
- You’re a serving member of the armed forces
- You’re detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.