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The Government has published the Oliver McGowan code of practice, which sets out standards for training on learning disability and autism for Care Quality Commission (CQC)-registered health and social care providers and their staff.
The training and the code of practice are named after Oliver McGowan, an 18-year-old from Bristol who died following a severe reaction to medication given to him against his and his family’s strong wishes.
Oliver had a learning disability, autism, focal partial epilepsy and mild hemiplegia. His parents, Paula and Tom, say his death could have been avoided if healthcare staff were better informed about how to care for neurodivergent and disabled individuals.
Under the law, health and care providers registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) are required to ensure that their staff have the appropriate training.
Safeguarding people with a learning disability and autistic people
Paula and Tom McGowan said: “The publication of the code of practice marks a deeply emotional and significant milestone for us and will ensure Oliver’s legacy will continue to make a difference by safeguarding people with a learning disability and autistic individuals from the same preventable failings that he tragically endured.
“The code establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the delivery of the training, promoting consistency and a deeper understanding across health and social care services. We are profoundly grateful to cross-party politicians for their unwavering support and especially to Baroness Sheila Hollins, whose leadership has been pivotal in advancing this important work.
“Our heartfelt thanks extend to everyone within the NHS and social care sectors, to our expert trainers, and to individuals with a learning disability and/or autism, along with their families and carers. This is a true example of what meaningful change looks like, giving a voice to those who are not always seen or heard, creating a lasting impact that will continue to transform lives for the better.”
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Legal requirement to ensure training for CQC staff
The training will be backed by funding as part of the Learning and Development Support Scheme for adult social care in autumn 2025.
Any adult social care providers who arrange for training for their staff between April 2025 and March 2026 will be reimbursed for the costs.
The Health and Care Act 2022 set out a legal requirement for CQC health and care providers to ensure staff receive appropriate training in caring for those with a learning disability or autistic people.
Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, added: “I pay tribute to Paula McGowan OBE and Tom McGowan and their formidable campaign to improve the care of people with a learning disability and autistic people after the tragic death of their son, Oliver.
“Through their work, they have shown extraordinary dedication, commitment and passion – Oliver’s memory and legacy lives through them. This government recognises the appalling health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people.
“Everyone deserves to receive high-quality, empathetic and dignified care, but this cannot be achieved if staff do not have the right training. people, their families and loved ones.”
