I shared recently on social media that I was attending—and have since passed—a course run by NHS England and the National Autistic Society to become an Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training lead trainer. Quite a mouthful, right?? Some people might be familiar with this training, but for others, it might be something completely new.
I hadn’t heard about it until I attended one of my first Derbyshire Autism Partnership Board meetings, where some of the attendees were discussing the negative experiences of autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities receiving healthcare. This is a topic I have blogged about previously, as it’s an issue close to my heart. But it was at that meeting that I first learned about this new mandatory training for all NHS and CQC-inspected health and social care staff.
The training is designed to teach people about working more compassionately and effectively with patients—or anyone—who is autistic, has a learning disability, or both. At its core, it aims to prevent the tragic misunderstandings that can arise from a lack of appropriate knowledge and communication, misunderstandings that can have devastating consequences.
Why the Oliver McGowan Training Matters: Oliver's Story
The training is named in honour of Oliver McGowan, a young autistic man with a mild learning disability. His story is heartbreaking but crucial in understanding why this training is so needed. Oliver tragically passed away in 2016 after being given antipsychotic medication against his and his family’s clear instructions. The drug caused an adverse reaction, leading to neuroleptic malignant syndrome and eventually his death.
Oliver’s parents, particularly his mother Paula McGowan, have since dedicated themselves to campaigning for better understanding and training for healthcare professionals, so no family has to experience the same loss. Their advocacy led to a government commitment to introduce mandatory training for health and social care staff across England. The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is now a critical step in ensuring professionals have the skills, knowledge, and empathy to support autistic people and those with learning disabilities appropriately.
As an autistic adult and a parent, Oliver’s story resonated deeply with me. I know how challenging it can be to navigate healthcare settings, even when you are equipped to advocate for yourself. His story reminded me how vital it is to make healthcare accessible and safe for everyone. I felt compelled to be part of this positive movement for change and wanted to contribute by becoming a lead trainer.
Navigating My Own Challenges
Once I decided to get involved, I found out who the lead was for the Oliver McGowan Training in my local trust. After a very positive chat, I was delighted to be accepted to attend the training. However, even attending the course came with personal challenges.
I had to navigate travelling to Cambridge, finding the training venue, and getting from the station to my hotel—simple for some, but a real test when you struggle with executive function and navigating new places. The trip required a lot of planning. I researched the venue, meticulously reviewed the journey, and even created a detailed travel checklist: which train I would get on, what stations it would pass through, where I would get off, and how I would get from the station to my hotel (thank goodness for Uber!).
This level of preparation might seem over the top to some, but for me, it was the difference between feeling overwhelmed and arriving confident and focused. My journey reminded me of the barriers so many autistic adults face in everyday situations that others take for granted. For me to perform at my best, I needed to make additional arrangements, such as planning my meals, bringing things to keep me occupied during downtime, and making sure I had strategies in place to deal with any unexpected changes.
The Professional and the Personal
I’m an accomplished businesswoman, trainer, and coach, but that doesn’t mean I’m immune to struggle. Like anyone, I have areas where I need support and preparation. I have learned to recognise these and put plans in place so I can thrive. Completing this course felt like a personal victory—not just because I passed, but because I navigated all the hurdles to get there.
I’m delighted to have passed and to now be in a position to train others on such an important topic. This training is not just about teaching facts; it’s about shaping attitudes and creating a more inclusive and empathetic healthcare system. I’m looking forward to delivering the training and being part of the next generation of trainers, helping healthcare professionals to provide better support and understanding to people with learning disabilities and autism.