Henry Shelford, CEO and Co-Founder of ADHD UK, was quoted in the article and provided background information.
The article from The Times reports that thousands of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the UK are experiencing significant challenges due to a national shortage of medications, particularly methylphenidate, commonly known by brand names such as Concerta and Ritalin. This shortage has persisted for over a year, leading to difficulties in obtaining prescriptions, with some children unable to concentrate in lessons or having to take days off school. A survey by the charity ADHD UK found that two-thirds of parents faced problems securing their child’s medication at the start of the school year. The shortages are attributed to increased demand and global supply chain disruptions. Campaigners and pharmacists are urging the Department of Health and NHS to reduce bureaucratic barriers that prevent patients from switching to alternative medications that are in stock. Henry Shelford, chief executive of ADHD UK, emphasized the severe impact of these shortages, stating that removing medication from a child with ADHD is akin to removing a wheelchair from a disabled person, as it prevents them from living their normal lives.
You can read the full article here: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/healthcare/article/thousands-of-children-affected-by-adhd-medication-shortage-sg7gg2hsw