Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism

At Ashfield Services, we are proud to be working in partnership with Enice Training & Care to offer Tier 1 and Tier 2 Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism—the government’s standardised and recommended training package for all health and social care staff.

Why This Training Matters

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training was created in honour of Oliver McGowan, a much-loved young man whose life was sadly cut short due to a lack of understanding around his needs. His story has inspired a national commitment to do better.

This training helps ensure staff feel informed, confident, and supported in delivering compassionate, respectful care to autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities. It’s a vital step towards creating a more inclusive, person-centred approach across all services. 

It was mandated by the Health and Care Act 2022, which requires CQC‑registered service providers to ensure their staff receive training appropriate to their role.

Who is this Training For?

Tier 1:
S
taff needing general awareness of the needs of autistic people and people with learning disabilities

Tier 2:
Staff with direct care responsibilities or who may need to make reasonable adjustments or use frameworks like the Mental Capacity Act, DNACPR, hospital passports, and co-morbidity considerations

Employers should consult the Tier Guidance to determine which level is appropriate for staff roles 

Training Structure and Delivery

All participants begin with the e‑learning module (90 minutes), which forms part one for both Tier 1 and Tier 2.

Tier 1

1‑hour live online interactive session, suitable for those with general awareness needs

Tier 2

1‑day in person workshop, ideal for staff involved in direct care and support

Quality & Compliance

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is co-delivered by experienced trainers, including autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities who bring essential lived experience. All co-trainers are approved and fairly remunerated for their time, knowledge, & contribution.

The content is fully aligned with the Core Capabilities Frameworks for supporting autistic people and people with learning disabilities, ensuring a consistent, evidence-based approach to care.

This training has been independently evaluated through national trials and is backed by NHS England as the recommended route for meeting statutory requirements under the Health and Care Act. It also supports compliance with the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice, published in June 2025.

Certification and Refresher Requirements

Health and Social Care Professionals are expected to refresh the training at least every three years, or more frequently when required.

Ideal practice is to complete Part 1 and Part 2 within a few days, but completion can occur within six months, with a quick refresh of the e‑learning if necessary.

What Ashfield Services Offers

Full delivery of both Tier 1 online sessions and Tier 2 face-to-face workshops, led by approved trainers including co‑trainers with lived experience.

Support with booking, scheduling, and access to the official e‑learning used in NHS England programmes.

Guidance on CQC compliance, staff tier assignment, and evaluation.

Next Steps and How to Book

Ready to ensure your team fulfills this statutory requirement? Get in touch with Ashfield Services to:

Book a Tier 1 or Tier 2 session

Discuss tailored delivery on‑site

Clarify which staff roles require which Tier

Let us help you embed compassionate, informed care and meet all legally mandated training obligations.