In a new report, Improving ADHD and autism services: commissioning with confidence, the ombudsman said reports had risen by 206% from 410 to 1,257.   

Ombudsman Paula Sussex said: 'People should not have to fight their way through a confusing system to get ADHD and autism care. We have seen clear evidence that this has created a postcode lottery, with too many people's access to care depending on where they live.'

The ombudsman called on the Government to publish clear national guidance to improve access to care and clarify patients' right to choose a provider.  

In addition, the ombudsman urged more support for ICBs to make consistent decisions about ADHD and autism services that meet the needs of their local communities and recommended NHS-funded providers delivering ADHD and/or autism assessments, but not ongoing care, should be registered with the Care Quality Commission.

A Government spokesperson said: ‘Last December, we asked clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy to lead an independent review, examining the prevalence of - and support for - ADHD, autism, and mental health conditions. Professor Fonagy's final report will be published later this summer, and will inform our new national approach in this area.'