Training and development
There are a range of courses and training options available for people who would like to gain a deeper understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions, either in relation to themselves or other people.
Online resources
Useful autism resources and training opportunities can be found on the NHS England learning disability and autism website, including some free online courses hosted by education organisations.
Autism Central hubs
The hubs offer families, carers and personal assistants of autistic people high-quality and easily accessible autism education, training, and support. Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire are covered by the South West regional hub. They offer group and one-to-one sessions run by peer educators to help parents and carers find the information and services available in your area. Hubs may also run events such as workshops, drop-in sessions, coffee mornings or virtual meet-ups.
Find out more on the Autism Central website.
Parenting support programmes
For children or young people with an autism diagnosis, parenting training programmes may be available: EarlyBird (under 5 years), EarlyBird Plus (ages 4-9) and Teen Life (ages 10-16). More information can be found on the National Autistic Society family support page.
Our three local council websites also include details of parenting support training that may be helpful to families with neurodivergent children.
Training for health and care staff
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is the standardised training that was developed for health and social care staff to ensure they receive learning disability and autism training appropriate to their role. You can find out more about the training that staff in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire receive on the Health Education England website.
