Children and Young People's Neurodevelopment Support Fund 2026-2027: supporting guidance

Purpose of funding

This funding should be used flexibly with a focus on holistic, needs-based support to ensure progress against the primary and secondary outcomes set out below. While working towards the primary outcome indicated, it is anticipated that any associated support or service design and planning will take account of and contribute to progressing the secondary outcomes.

Age

In line with the ND Specification, services and supports can be for all children and young people who are aged 0–18 years, and young adults aged 18–24 (and up to age 26 for care experienced people).

Primary outcome:

• Support the improved wellbeing of children and young people with neurodevelopmental support needs, and their families, including those with a diagnosis, awaiting diagnosis, and those not requiring or seeking a diagnosis for a neurodevelopmental condition.

Secondary outcomes:

• Enable greater connectivity between the range of services supporting children and young people with ND needs across the public and third sector including CAMHS and the wider health service.
• Reduce pressure within universal services currently supporting children with neurodevelopmental needs.