VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Children: Neurodiversity

Asked by Adam DanceLiberal DemocratDepartment for EducationTabled Answered 20 May 2026UIN 871

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether guidance on universal screening for neurodivergence will be included in the proposed National Inclusion Standards.

Answered by Georgia Gould

The department will appoint an independent panel of experts, selected for their skills, knowledge, and professional standing, and led by health and education co-chairs, to design the National Inclusion Standards and Specialist Provision Packages.

The National Inclusion Standards will set out what ordinarily available provision should be in every setting across the 0 to 25 system, as well as the evidence-based tools, strategies and approaches for educators to draw on to identify and support children and young people with additional needs, including for those who are neurodivergent.

New government-backed research led by UK Research and Innovation will develop and test approaches to early identification, including screening tools, that can be embedded in education settings nationwide. Together, these measures are intended to ensure that every child receives the right support at the right time, helping them to thrive both in education and beyond.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim