Update on Right to Choose Pathways

The following update has been provided to us by the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB). We expect more information at the beginning of April 2026.

We know many families rely on Right to Choose pathways and that updates about access or waiting lists can feel uncertain. This update aims to explain what is changing, what is staying the same, and what families can expect next.

The BOB ICB is now required to have activity plans with Right to Choose Providers (all age) that are based on affordability. Until recently, ICBs had limited control over the cost of this service to patients. As demand has grown, so too has the financial impact on the NHS and taxpayers. While we budgeted £3 million for Right To Choose assessments this year, Provider estimates suggest costs could reach £11 million. This £8 million shortfall presents a significant challenge and would necessitate substantial service reductions in other parts of our system to remain within budget. The ICB is working though our commissioning framework to ensure we have a list of quality assured Providers, and we will be working with those Providers to allocate new activity from April.

Some Providers have completed their allocation for the financial year and are therefore holding patients on their waiting lists or deferring referrals until the new financial year. These changes are about how new activity is planned and funded. They do not change the expectation that providers continue to support people who are already in assessment or treatment.

What this means for you right now:

• If your child or young person already has an assessment booked, this will continue as planned.

• If you are part-way through an assessment or waiting for treatment, your provider should continue supporting you.

• Some providers may pause new referrals until the new financial year, but existing care should not stop

These changes are about how new activity is planned and funded. They do not change the expectation that providers continue to support people who are already in assessment or treatment.