Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) service update information for parents, carers, referrers and partner organisations

15 October 2026
 

Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has previously provided a specialist assessment service for children and young people referred with suspected Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) across Central Lancashire, Fylde Coast and North Lancashire.

APD describes difficulties in processing and interpreting sounds and spoken information despite normal hearing. Children and young people experiencing these difficulties may require support to help them listen, learn and communicate effectively.

Following a review of local arrangements, Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), working with Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has taken the decision to discontinue the specialist APD assessment and diagnostic service.

We recognise that this decision will be disappointing and concerning for some children, young people and families, particularly those who have benefited from the service in the past or who were awaiting assessment.

What does this mean for children and families?

  • No new referrals will be accepted to the APD assessment pathway.
  • The specialist APD assessment and diagnostic service has now closed.
  • Families of children who are currently on the waiting list or already undergoing assessment will be contacted directly about their individual circumstances.
  • Support for children and young people experiencing listening, communication and learning difficulties remains available through other health, education and support services.

Why has this decision been taken?

The assessment and management of APD remains an evolving area of practice nationally. There continues to be variation across England in how APD services are commissioned and delivered.

The British Society of Audiology has published professional guidance to support assessment and management of APD. At the same time, NHS organisations are awaiting greater national clarity regarding commissioning responsibilities, service models and future funding arrangements.

In the light of this uncertainty, the ICB and Trust have agreed to discontinue the current service and review future arrangements as further national guidance becomes available.

Is this a permanent decision?

The current specialist APD assessment and diagnostic pathway has closed. The ICB will continue to monitor national guidance, policy development and commissioning arrangements. Any future service developments will be considered in the light of emerging national guidance and local need.

Support that remains available

Children and young people experiencing listening, communication or learning difficulties can continue to access support through:

  • Educational settings and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support.
  • Speech and Language Therapy services where appropriate.
  • Local audiology services.
  • Community paediatric services.
  • Educational psychology and specialist education teams where available.
  • Other health and education professionals involved in their care.

Working with families

We acknowledge the feedback received from parent carer forums and recognise the importance of involving families and carers in discussions that affect services.

We remain committed to continuing dialogue with parent carer forums and other stakeholders as we consider future arrangements and communicate with affected families.

Information for referrers

Paediatric audiology services at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust remain available for children and young people with hearing difficulties. However, the APD assessment pathway is now closed to new referrals.

Further information:

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