Learning Disabilities and Autism Personalised Support Course

Learning Disabilities and Autism Personalised Support Course – Online Course

Course overview
This one-hour online course introduces personalised support for autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities. It covers person-centred care, effective communication, sensory awareness, identifying individual support needs and creating autism-friendly environments. Learners will also explore the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and its principles to understand how to support decision-making while respecting individual rights, choices and independence.

Please note: This course provides introductory knowledge and supports continuing professional development. It does not replace practical training, specialist instruction or role-specific training that an employer may require to ensure staff are competent to provide safe and appropriate support.

What the course covers
• Person-centred care and personalised support
• Identifying individual care and support needs
• Tailoring support to personal preferences and abilities
• Autism-friendly environments and sensory awareness
• Communication methods, including non-verbal communication and body language
• Communication systems and language support
• Understanding behaviour that challenges
• Supporting relationships, hobbies and independence
• Working with families, other professionals and support services
• Identifying services for complex and diverse needs
• The Mental Capacity Act 2005 and its key principles
• Applying inclusive and supportive practices in everyday care

Who is it for?
This course is suitable for support workers, care assistants, healthcare assistants, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, personal assistants, keyworkers, domiciliary care staff, residential care teams, community support workers, team leaders and service managers. It is also relevant to family carers and organisations supporting autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities.

Practical benefits
• Develop a better understanding of individual needs, strengths and preferences
• Improve communication and adapt approaches to different communication styles
• Recognise sensory needs and help create more supportive environments
• Promote dignity, independence, wellbeing and positive relationships
• Understand how the Mental Capacity Act 2005 relates to supporting decision-making
• Strengthen inclusive, consistent and person-centred care practices

What learners will be able to do
• Explain the principles of personalised support for autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities
• Identify relevant support needs and recognise individual preferences
• Describe ways to adapt communication and the care environment
• Recognise situations involving behaviour that challenges and the importance of appropriate support
• Understand the role of families, professionals and support services
• Apply key principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to support decision-making
• Recognise when additional advice, assistance or escalation may be necessary
• Contribute to safer, more inclusive and person-centred support

Is this training a legal requirement?
The course itself is not specifically required by law for every worker in the UK. However, employers have responsibilities to ensure staff are suitably trained and competent for their roles. This training supports awareness of relevant duties under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, including Regulation 18 on staffing, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2010, including reasonable adjustments for disabled people. Employers may require relevant training as part of induction, refresher training or continuing professional development.

Assessment and certificate
The course is completed online and includes a multiple-choice assessment. Successful learners receive an instant digital CPD-accredited certificate. Learners can study at their own pace using a phone, tablet or computer.