UK national citizens' report presented in the House of Commons (17/10/2005)

17 October 2005: Following a final weekend of deliberations and discussions with 15 invited experts and stakeholders the UK citizens' panel have formulated a series of recommendations. These are contained in their report which was presented to Phyllis Starkey, MP, at a press briefing at the House of Commons on 17th October.

Some key recommendations of the UK citizens were:

• There is a sound economic case for the government (DTI and DH) investing significantly greater resources in research into Brain Sciences to avoid rapidly escalating future costs of an ageing population being more prone to degenerative conditions. The amount should be constantly reviewed in light of new opportunities and successes.
  
  
• Some of the biggest advances in brain science come from unexpected scientific discoveries. We have learned that research is increasingly tied to practical problems and this inhibits the ability to carry out blue-sky research. We recommend that funding should not be solely tied to practical problems and that a realistic and increased percentage of funding pot be made available by government via the MRC. A broad spectrum of the brain science research community must be involved in making the decision about the proportion of the total funding pot that goes to blue-sky research. We feel strongly that the research community should be the ones directing the placement of these funds.
  
  
• In order to preserve individuality there must be choice. We believe that government should ensure medical practitioners and social care professionals working in areas related to brain science address the whole individual and consistently value his/her individuality. It must be recognised that the individuals have an appreciation of their condition that is not necessarily verifiable through established science. A broad range of treatment options and support (e.g. diet, drugs, counselling and holistic approaches) needs to be offered.
  
  
• In view of recent concerns over the level of disruption in schools and levels of anti-social behaviour among certain young elements of society, we recommend that the government initiates a strategy to combine all current research, departments and interested bodies dealing with ADHD, to form a consensus to diagnose and treat ADHD and similar disorders.
  
  
• Brain diseases are destined to become a growing financial burden on society. DH and Local Health Authorities should use citizen panels to make decisions, when there is a significant dilemma about prioritising the use of public funds. This would balance an individual’s wishes for treatment and care, against what is practical.