Oliver McGowan was a young man with learning disabilities and autism who died following inappropriate medication. The independent review that followed his death found that a lack of training in learning disability and autism was a direct contributing factor in failures across health and social care.
Tier 2 training is now mandatory for all frontline health and social care staff who directly support people with learning disabilities and autism. It equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to provide safe, person-centred care and to prevent harm in line with national standards.
Understanding the specific needs of people with learning disabilities and autism — including how to communicate effectively, recognise risks, and apply person-centred approaches — directly improves outcomes and safety for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
Recognise specific health and social care needs of people with learning disabilities and autism
Understand and overcome communication barriers using alternative and augmentative tools
Identify risks and take active steps to prevent harm and safeguard individuals
Apply person-centred approaches that support choice, autonomy and dignity
Reflect on practice and promote inclusive, safe, and rights-based care
All sessions are delivered by experienced healthcare and social care professionals. The programme uses active, participatory methods rather than passive instruction — learners engage with real scenarios from practice throughout.
Interactive Workshops
Facilitated sessions with structured exercises and practitioner-led discussion
Case Studies
Real-world scenarios drawn from healthcare and social care practice
Group Discussions
Facilitated reflective activities building shared understanding across teams
Practical Examples
Applied scenarios from frontline healthcare and social care environments
This programme is delivered under the QACLS (Quality Assured Care Learning Standard) accreditation framework. Eligible organisations may access funding through the Learning Disability and Autism Specific Skills (LDSS) fund — speak to our team to confirm your organisation's eligibility and explore funded delivery options.