The Oliver McGowan Code of Practice is a landmark statutory framework designed to set clear, enforceable standards for learning disability and autism training across all CQC-registered health and social care providers in England. Named in memory of Oliver McGowan, who died after a lack of appropriate understanding and response to his needs, this code underpins legal requirements introduced in the Health and Care Act 2022.
What the Code Covers
Who must comply:
All staff, at all levels, within CQC-registered health and social care services must now receive training in learning disability and autism that is appropriate to their role. The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training is the government’s recommended standard for this.
Key standards:
The code requires:
- Training content to match minimum capabilities from national frameworks, with both basic awareness and enhanced content for staff who provide direct care.
- Interactive, practical training, tailored with real-world examples, case studies, and discussions.
- Co-production and delivery by people with lived experience – meaning sessions must involve trainers with learning disabilities and autistic people themselves.
- Quality assurance – providers should use accredited, evidence-based, and regularly evaluated training.
Compliance and expectations:
The Code describes how to procure, deliver, monitor, and assess impact of training. Registered providers must record and demonstrate their compliance, with clear actions for non-compliance.
Funding for Providers
From autumn 2025, care providers arranging Oliver McGowan training for staff between April 2025 and March 2026 can claim reimbursement through the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS). It’s vital that providers set up an account on the new LDSS portal to ensure they can reclaim training costs, supporting their legal obligations in line with the Code of Practice.
Why This Matters?
The new Code was developed in close consultation with people with learning disabilities, autistic people, their families, and care sector experts to prevent further avoidable harm and improve equality of health outcomes. By following the Code, providers not only remain compliant with CQC expectations but also support the delivery of safer, more compassionate and person-centred care.
Final approval of the Code by Parliament is expected by 6 September 2025 , making full compliance essential for all providers by that date.
