The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism – Tier 1

Meeting statutory responsibilities under the Health and Care Act and the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice means ensuring that all staff have the knowledge and awareness required to support autistic individuals and people with learning disabilities safely, respectfully, and inclusively. The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is the government’s preferred and standardised training framework designed to improve understanding, reduce health inequalities, and strengthen person-centred practice across health and social care settings.

The Tier 1 Interactive Webinar is specifically designed for staff members who require general awareness training but do not provide direct care, treatment, or complex care-planning within their role. This highly engaging live webinar provides an accessible and interactive introduction to learning disability and autism while helping organisations meet regulatory expectations and workforce training requirements.

Delivered online through an interactive virtual platform, this live session moves beyond passive learning and encourages active participation, reflection, and discussion. Training is delivered using the approved “training trio” model, consisting of a Facilitating Trainer alongside two co-trainers with lived experience — one autistic individual and one individual with a learning disability. Through shared experiences, practical examples, discussion, and live Q&A opportunities, learners gain valuable insight into the real-life barriers many individuals face when accessing services and support.

By the end of the session, participants will have a stronger understanding of inclusive practice, communication, and reasonable adjustments, helping them contribute towards safer, more compassionate, and more accessible environments.

Who This Course Is For

Tier 1 training is suitable for staff working within health, social care, education, community, or support environments who may come into contact with autistic individuals or people with learning disabilities but do not provide direct care or make complex care decisions.

This includes:

• Administrators and Reception Staff
• Housekeeping and Domestic Teams
• Catering and Kitchen Staff
• Maintenance and Facilities Teams
• Security Staff
• Practice Managers and Office-Based Staff
• Volunteers and Non-Clinical Personnel
• Off-Site and Ancillary Support Staff

Key Learning Outcomes

By participating in this interactive webinar, learners will explore:

Understanding Learning Disability and Autism

Develop a foundational understanding of learning disabilities and autism, including key characteristics, differences, and the importance of person-centred approaches.

Recognising the Importance of Reasonable Adjustments

Learn how small, practical adjustments can significantly improve communication, accessibility, experiences, and outcomes for individuals accessing services.

Exploring Inclusive Communication

Gain insight into different communication styles and approaches that promote positive, respectful, and effective interactions.

Challenging Assumptions and Reducing Stigma

Reflect on attitudes, behaviours, and common misconceptions to support more inclusive, compassionate, and understanding workplace cultures.

Learning from Lived Experience

Hear directly from trainers with lived experience, helping learners better understand the real-world impact that communication, environments, and staff attitudes can have on individuals.

Flexible Delivery to Suit Your Organisation

This training is delivered as a live interactive webinar designed to maximise accessibility, engagement, and reflective learning.

Live Interactive Webinar – 1 Hour

Delivered online through video conferencing software using the official Oliver McGowan training framework and approved co-delivery model. Sessions include discussion, reflection, shared lived experiences, scenario exploration, and opportunities for live questions and interaction.

Training is delivered by an approved training trio consisting of:

• A Facilitating Trainer
• A Co-Trainer with lived experience of autism
• A Co-Trainer with lived experience of a learning disability

Important Prerequisite

To successfully achieve their Tier 1 certificate, all learners must complete the free 90-minute Oliver McGowan e-learning module (Tier 1 Part 1) via the NHS England eLearning for Healthcare (ELFH) platform prior to attending the live webinar.

Important Details

Nationally Recognised Training

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is the government’s preferred and standardised training programme for learning disability and autism across health and social care settings in England and is delivered in accordance with the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice.

Regulatory Alignment

This training supports organisations in meeting the expectations outlined within the Health and Care Act, the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice, and CQC guidance relating to learning disability and autism training.

Certification

Learners receive official certification upon successful completion of both the online learning and live webinar components.