10th September 2026
Oliver McGowan Training - Open Sessions
Matthew's Hub is now offering open sessions of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism for both Tier 1 and Tier 2
During the training, attendees learn directly from people with lived experience of learning disability and autism. Each session is delivered by a team consisting of:
- A co-trainer with lived experience of a learning disability
- A co-trainer with lived experience of autism
- A facilitating trainer
We believe there’s great value in hearing first-hand from experts by experience. Attendees gain insight into the challenges individuals have faced when accessing services and support, as well as examples of positive interactions and reasonable adjustments that have made a meaningful difference.
The training encourages participants to better understand the needs of the people they support, recognise the importance of person-centred approaches, and identify practical changes that can improve experiences and outcomes for autistic people and people with learning disabilities.
Who Was Oliver McGowan?
Oliver McGowan was a young autistic man with a learning disability who tragically died in an NHS hospital in 2016 after concerns raised by him and his family were not properly listened to.
His death should never have happened.
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training was developed in response to recommendations following Oliver's death. Its aim is to ensure that health and social care staff have the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to provide safe, compassionate and effective support to autistic people and people with learning disabilities.
Matthew's Hub's Role in Delivering the Training
Over the past few years, Matthew's Hub has played a significant role in the regional rollout of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training. Working closely with local NHS trusts, councils and other partners, the organisation has helped establish and deliver this vital programme across the area.
From the initial planning stages through to recruiting experts by experience, providing trainer development and offering ongoing support, Matthew's Hub has been instrumental in ensuring the successful delivery of the training and supporting those involved in delivering it.
How to Find Out More and Book a Place
Head to our Oliver McGowan pages for more information and our new booking system. We hope to see you soon to hear from our experts with lived experience