Learning disability and autism
Learning disability and autism training: honest Oliver McGowan guidance.
Learning disability and autism training is a statutory requirement. This page explains what Haverton can and cannot offer, so providers do not buy the wrong evidence.
Content reviewed: 9 July 2026. CQC framework guidance is changing during 2026; providers should check current CQC guidance before relying on framework detail.
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Image placeholder: accessible training plan with tier mapping grid; no imagery that stereotypes disability or autism.
The useful answer
Learning disability and autism training is a statutory requirement under the Health and Care Act 2022.
Since 6 September 2025, the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice is the benchmark CQC uses for Regulation 18 compliance. Generic autism awareness training does not satisfy the requirement.
The training must be co-delivered by paid trainers with lived experience of learning disability and autism, and delivered by trainers on NHS England's approved list.
Approval status
[PLACEHOLDER: Owner to confirm approval status - Option A / B / C]
Option A - not approved: We are not an approved Oliver McGowan training provider and will not sell you training that does not meet the Code. We will help you map staff to the correct tier, build the evidence CQC will ask for, and point you to approved providers.
Option B - working towards approval: We are working towards approval and are not currently taking bookings for Oliver McGowan training.
Option C - approved: State the tier, approval reference and any limits of approval. [PLACEHOLDER: tier and approval reference]
What Haverton can help with
CQC expects a role-mapping exercise with tier-appropriate training evidenced for all staff, including ancillary roles.
Tier 1 is awareness. Tier 2 is for staff providing direct care and support. Providers should be able to explain who needs which tier and why.
The DHSC reimbursement window closed on 31 March 2026, so providers now need to plan the cost of compliant training.
- Role mapping by job type and contact with people using the service.
- Evidence tracker for completed tier-appropriate training.
- Gap report for managers and providers.
- Signposting to approved providers where Haverton is not approved.
Related support
Training works best when it links to governance.
Frequently asked questions
Can Haverton sell Oliver McGowan training today?
Only if the owner confirms approval status, tier and reference. Until then, the page must say Haverton can support role mapping and evidence planning, not deliver bookable Oliver McGowan training.
Does generic autism awareness training meet the statutory requirement?
No. The prompt requires the page to be clear that generic autism awareness training does not satisfy the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice requirement.
Does Haverton Care Hub training guarantee CQC compliance?
No. Training can support competence, safer practice and better evidence, but it cannot guarantee compliance, a registration decision, a CQC rating or an inspection outcome.
Will staff receive a certificate?
Staff can receive a Haverton Care Hub certificate of attendance or completion where appropriate. A certificate is not the same as competence, so course materials include a competency framework the provider can use after training.
Can training be delivered remotely?
Many knowledge-based sessions can be delivered live online. Practical competence subjects, including moving and handling and basic life support, must be delivered in person unless the owner confirms an awarding-body model that permits another approach.
Training strengthens your staff's competence and the quality of your evidence. It does not guarantee any CQC rating, registration decision or inspection outcome.