Learning Disability and Autism Training Course

The Learning Disability and Autism Training Course is mandatory training for health and social care staff across England. The course is designed to improve understanding, reduce health inequalities, and ensure people with a learning disability and/or autism receive safe, respectful, and person-centred care.

This training focuses on real-world practice, lived experience, and meaningful learning that supports better outcomes for individuals, families, and professionals.

What Is Learning Disability and Autism Training?

Learning Disability and Autism Training is a national training programme for the health and social care workforce. Its purpose is to give staff the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support people with a learning disability and/or autism more effectively.

The training helps staff to:

• Understand learning disability and autism

• Recognise barriers that lead to poorer health outcomes

• Communicate more effectively and compassionately

• Make reasonable adjustments in everyday practice

• Deliver safer, more personalised care

Why This Training Matters

People with a learning disability and autistic people experience significant health inequalities. Learning Disability and Autism Training aims to address this by improving workforce knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours.

By completing the course, learners gain a better understanding of:

• How assumptions and misunderstandings can lead to harm

• The importance of listening to individuals and families

• How small adjustments can make a big difference to care experiences

• The role of staff in reducing avoidable distress and risk

Learning Outcomes

After completing the Learning Disability and Autism Training Course, learners will be able to:

• Explain the difference between learning disability and autism

• Recognise how health inequalities affect people with a learning disability and/or autism

• Apply practical communication strategies in care settings

• Identify and implement reasonable adjustments

• Reflect on their role in delivering inclusive, person-centred care

Tier 1 and Tier 2 Training Explained

Learning Disability and Autism Training is delivered in two tiers, depending on staff roles and responsibilities.

Tier 1 – Learning Disability and Autism Awareness

Tier 1 is designed for staff who may come into contact with people with a learning disability and/or autism, including non-clinical and support roles.

Tier 1 covers:

• Core awareness and understanding

• Communication basics

• Recognising reasonable adjustments

• Creating inclusive environments

Tier 2 – Learning Disability and Autism in Practice

Tier 2 is for staff who provide direct care or make clinical or support decisions.

Tier 2 focuses on:

• Applied learning and real-life scenarios

• Supporting choice and reducing distress

• Working effectively with families and carers

• Embedding reasonable adjustments into care pathways

Who Should Complete Learning Disability and Autism Training?

The course is suitable for a wide range of health and social care roles, including:

• NHS clinical and non-clinical staff

• Social care professionals

• Community and primary care teams

• Mental health services

• Public sector staff in patient-facing roles

• Independent and voluntary sector care providers

Many organisations treat the training as mandatory for relevant roles.

How The Course Is Delivered

Learning Disability and Autism Training can be delivered in a variety of formats, depending on organisational needs:

• Online learning

• Face-to-face training

• Blended learning programmes

Delivery may include interactive activities, real-world examples, and content informed by people with lived experience of learning disability and autism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Learning Disability and Autism Training mandatory?
Many health and social care organisations require the training for relevant roles. Within dentistry, it is mandatory as stated by the CQC.

Do learners receive a certificate?
Yes, we issue a certificate or completion record for compliance and workforce records.

Is the training suitable for non-clinical staff?
Yes. Tier 1 is particularly suitable for non-clinical and support staff.

How long does the training take?
The length depends on the tier and delivery method. Full details are provided at the point of booking.

Book Learning Disability and Autism Training

The Learning Disability and Autism Training Course supports safer care, better communication, and improved outcomes for people with a learning disability and/or autism.

You can book individual places or arrange group training for your organisation. Tier 1 and Tier 2 options are available, with flexible delivery to suit your workforce.

Enquire or book today to support inclusive, person-centred care.