Oliver McGowan training

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training onLearning Disability and Autism – key messages

1. Training Objective

• Equips healthcare professionals to support individuals with learning disabilities and autism empathetically.

2. Understanding Learning Disabilities

• A lifelong condition impacting intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. More details: Mencap on Learning Disabilities

3. Understanding Autism

• Autism impacts social and communication skills, sensory perceptions, and flexible thinking. Visit: National Autistic Society – What is Autism

4. Health Inequalities

• Individuals with learning disabilities or autism face significant health disparities. Learn more from the LeDeR Programme: LeDeR Policy

5. Diagnostic Overshadowing

• A common issue where symptoms are misattributed to a person's disability. For guidance: NHS Diagnostic Overshadowing Guide

6. Communication Challenges

• Strategies for effective communication, including visual aids and simplified language. Explore: Mencap Communication Tools

7. Reasonable Adjustments

• Adjustments ensure fair access to services. For practical guidance: Reasonable Adjustments in Healthcare

8. Annual Health Checks

• Health checks for individuals aged 14 and above. Details: NHS Annual Health Checks

9. Sensory Processing Sensitivities

• Addressing sensory needs to reduce stress. Check resources: National Autistic Society Sensory Differences

10. Transition from Childhood toAdulthood

• Preparing for transitions early (by Year 9). Explore resources: Preparing for Adulthood

11. Postural Care for SevereDisabilities

• Specialized equipment and postural management are vital. Learn more: Postural Care CIC

12. Social Model of Disability

• Focuses on removing societal barriers. For more information: Inclusion London - Social Model of Disability

13. Mental Health Risks

• Autistic individuals are at a higher risk of mental health issues. Resources: Mental Health Foundation Autism and Mental Health

14. Family and Carer Involvement

• Tools like communication passports improve care quality. Download: Mencap Hospital Passport

15. Resources and Best Practices

• Access tools and support from Mencap and NAS
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  • Mencap Resources
   
  • National Autistic Society Resources

Click here for detailed handbook onthe Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism.