The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is the government's preferred and recommended training programme to meet this statutory requirement. It was co-developed by Skills for Care and Health Education England (now part of NHS England) alongside experts with lived experience of learning disabilities and autism. It is the only training that is guaranteed to meet the requirements laid out in the Oliver McGowan draft code of practice on statutory learning disability and autism training, and employers using this training can have confidence that the training is recognised by national bodies advising on standards for the sector.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) supports this training, recognising its vital role in enhancing care for people with learning disabilities and autistic people. The CQC ensures that care providers meet the necessary standards to deliver compassionate, person-centred care.

First Response Training was one of the first training providers in the country to be approved to offer essential training in line with the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.

We aim to empower and educate staff to transform their practice by embracing the lived experiences of autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities. Through the collaborative strength of our trios—facilitating trainers and experts—we aim to inspire lasting change in how individuals are understood, supported, and valued.