Health staff in England to be trained on learning disability and autism

Eighteen-year-old Oliver McGowan, who had a mild learning disability and autism, died after being given unsuitable medication. Photograph: PA

Mandatory training for health and care staff in England to support people with a learning disability and autistic people has been launched following a grieving mother’s four-year campaign.

Paula McGowan’s 18-year-old son, Oliver, who had a mild learning disability and autism, died after doctors “arrogantly” gave him antipsychotic medication despite his family’s warnings that they were unsuitable.