This full-day (7 hour) course is designed to provide an understanding of a highly complex condition and is suitable for anyone who knows or supports individuals with autism. Please note this course is based upon the Oliver McGowan mandatory training which all NHS and social care staff must receive.

Course objectives

By the end of this course those attending should be able to:

• What autism is and its prevalence
• The characteristics of autism
• The causes of autism
• Diagnosis of autism in adults and children
• Autism and development
• Autism and social interaction
• Autism and communication
• Autism and the use of imagination
• Autism and mental health
• The importance of routines
• Sensory difficulties and autism
• Treatments for autism
• Useful interventions when supporting those living with autism
• How to access information, support, and advice about autism