A consultation has been launched by the government on draft standards on legal requirements for learning disability and autism training.

The draft guidance for the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice outlines the standards that training on learning disabilities and autism must meet to comply with the legislation from the Health and Care Act 2022, and guidance on how providers can meet those standards.

Minister of state for health, Maria Caulfield, said: “People with a learning disability and autistic people deserve care that is personalised to them, and it’s important for staff to have the right skills to provide this.

“We want as many people as possible to contribute to this consultation so that we can continue working towards a society where everyone knows their needs will be met when they walk into a hospital or care setting.”

Tom Cahill, national director for learning disability and autism at NHS England, said: “This is a significant step towards improving awareness, knowledge and skills of all health and care staff in looking after and supporting people with a learning disability and autistic people.

“The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism will ensure that people with a learning disability and autistic people receive the right levels of care and support that meet their individual needs.

“We ask that all health and care employers take part in this consultation – and ensure their staff get the appropriate training they need through the recently rolled out e-learning, interactive and face-to-face training sessions.”