Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to support children living with Functional Neurological Disorder.

The Government recognises that functional neurological disorder (FND) can have a significant impact on the lives of children and their families. Children with FND may experience a wide range of symptoms, and early recognition and access to appropriate support is essential. FND can be difficult to identify in children, as symptoms often overlap with other neurological and developmental conditions. Early and accurate detection is therefore essential to ensure children receive appropriate assessment, clear communication of diagnosis, and timely access to multidisciplinary support.

Health professionals are supported by national evidence‑based products which play an important role in strengthening recognition and referral pathways. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) includes FND within its guideline, Suspected neurological conditions: recognition and referral, reference code NG127. It outlines common symptom patterns associated with FND, such as fluctuating limb weakness, sensory disturbances, episodes of altered awareness, and difficulties with memory and concentration, and sets out recommended referral routes for suspected cases.

NICE’s Clinical Knowledge Summary on FND also provides practical advice for clinicians on the diagnosis and management of FND, supporting improved recognition in primary and non‑specialist care.

In addition, NICE published, in October 2025, new guidance on rehabilitation for chronic neurological disorders, reference code NG252, which will help improve access to consistent, multidisciplinary support for children and young people with neurological conditions, including those with FND.

Integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning services that meet the needs of their local populations, including pathways for children with neurological conditions such as FND. ICBs are expected to work with clinicians and specialists, informed by national guidance, to ensure appropriate assessment, referral and support arrangements are in place for children presenting with symptoms consistent with FND.

NHS England ensures that ICBs follow NICE guidance through a combination of statutory oversight frameworks, annual performance assessments, and local clinical governance requirements.