Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart has stepped in to assist a four-year-old boy, Iain Gregori, by funding his autism diagnosis amid significant delays in the NHS. The move highlights the ongoing challenges faced by families requiring timely autism assessments in Scotland.
Iain's father, Michael Gregori, has reportedly waited three years for an official diagnosis for his son, who remains non-verbal. Michael, a former member of the Scottish National Party, expressed his disappointment, asserting that the government has let down families like his own. He stated, "Everyone is saying Iain needs this diagnosis... but at the same time, he needs an official diagnosis to get the resources he needs.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar brought attention to Iain's situation during a session of First Minister's Questions, pointing out the troubling state of autism assessments within the NHS. Sarwar remarked, “Rod Stewart heard this heartbreaking story and stepped in to pay for Iain’s diagnosis. Others won’t be as lucky.” He called into question the government's handling of such cases and suggested that it is unacceptable for families to depend on charitable interventions from celebrities for essential medical care.
In response to concerns raised by Sarwar, First Minister John Swinney clarified that an official diagnosis is not necessary for a child to receive support. He stated, “It is absolutely critical that I make that point to Parliament today,” further asserting that there are alternative pathways available to ensure children receive the assistance they require. Swinney emphasised ongoing government efforts to expand mental health support and develop community interventions aimed at addressing the needs of young people early on.
Sir Rod has indicated that his team would assist in locating a private specialist either in London or Scotland to facilitate the diagnostic process for Iain. The musician commented that he will cover all related expenses, highlighting a willingness to address immediate needs in the face of bureaucratic delays.
Recent statistics highlighted by Sarwar indicate alarming waiting times; it was revealed that a child in the NHS Lothian area has waited six years for treatment. In light of such figures, Swinney reiterated the government's commitment to reducing waiting times within the health service. He stated, “We are working to reduce waiting times for access to treatment for individuals across the health service in Scotland and we are making progress in a number of areas in relation to that objective.”
The situation sheds light on a broader systemic issue regarding autism diagnosis and treatment availability in Scotland, underscoring the urgent need for improvements in the health service to support families navigating these challenges.
Source: Noah Wire Services