Cast your mind back to July of this year, when the Health and Care Act 2022 introduced the need for all CQC-registered service providers to ensure that their teams received training on learning disability and autism.

There was much hype and lots of questions at the time. Fast forward to today, and there are still many questions being asked, particularly about training requirements. It could be said it’s not surprising, given that the complete training package isn’t quite ready to go!

There are two parts to each tier of training, the first part being the e-Learning package; the second, a live online interactive session for Tier 1, or a one-day, face-to-face training session for people needing Tier 2. Part 2 is not yet available, although as we edge closer to 2023, there is hope that Part 2 will be live early in the new year. So, for now, it’s about understanding the requirements, what training is needed, or perhaps more appropriately, what training is acceptable. Confused? Don’t be! Here are some frequently asked questions and answers, to help alleviate your confusion.

What does the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training cover?

The training was developed in line with the Core Capabilities Framework for Supporting People with a Learning Disability and the Core Capabilities Framework for Supporting Autistic People. Both are nationally recognised and explain the necessary skills, knowledge and conduct expected from staff who deal with patients with a learning disability and/or autism.

Simply put, Tier 1 provides a general awareness of the support patients with autism and/or a learning disability require, whilst Tier 2 is a little more detailed, aimed at staff who provide care, support or healthcare, including:

– Avoiding diagnostic overshadowing
– Frequently co-occurring conditions (co-morbidities)
– The laws: Mental Capacity Act, Human Rights Act, Autism Act
– Reasonable adjustments including hospital passports
– Culture (professional bias and subconscious beliefs), professional behaviour and the impact on outcomes and other people’s behaviour
– How to communicate in accessible ways
– How to understand what the person (and their family) is saying
– Ask, Listen, Do
– Learning from LeDeR
– Annual health checks

Top tip: Make sure you check the frameworks to ensure all members of your team have the appropriate level of training pertinent to their role.

I’ve completed Part 1, so how long before I need to complete Part 2?

Part 1 contains information that you’ll need to remember for Part 2, so ideally, you’ll have completed both parts within days of each other. If six or more months have passed since completing Part 1 and you want to make a start on Part 2, you’ll need to complete Part 1 again.

How often should I complete the training? 

You’ll have to let the Secretary of State decide that, as they’re required to publish a Code of Practice which will detail the frequency of training. A formal consultation must take place prior to the Code being published. The draft version must be laid before Parliament for 40 days prior to its publication. It’s anticipated the Code will be published prior to June 2023.

Why does the Code of Practice matter?

It will help you understand (and meet) the requirement for learning disability and autism training. The Code will explain the content, delivery, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.

Is the training aligned with the Skills for Health Core Skills Training Framework?

At the time of writing, it isn’t known whether the training will be aligned with the Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF) as the framework is currently under review.

Do I have to complete the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training or can I use another training course?

Currently, the choice is yours. However, Health Education England (HEE) advise that the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is the Government’s preferred and recommended training. It’s expected that the Code of Practice will advise employers about what training will satisfy the requirements detailed in the Health and Social Care Act 2022.

But if you do decide to use the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism, you can rest assured that this training is recognised by national bodies advising on standards for the healthcare sector.

For now, you can complete Part 1 on the Practice Index HUB. If you are not already registered, you can sign up here free of charge. ICBs are currently working to develop trainer capabilities and the capacity to deliver Part 2. You can get involved too, by completing this expression of interest form.