An autism charity has secured a contract to provide training to healthcare staff across Hampshire.

Autism Hampshire will deliver the Oliver McGowan course, which is designed to improve practices in treating those with learning disabilities and autism.

Initiated in 2022, it's named after Oliver McGowan, an autistic youth with learning disabilities who died at age 18 after anti-psychotic drugs were given against his and his parents' wishes.

Maxine Gibson, head of community services at Autism Hampshire, said: "Oliver's death highlighted a critical need for better training among health and social care professionals and we’re honoured to have been selected as one of the training providers in Hampshire.

"This is a significant opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives."

The training project is an opportunity for employment, as those conducting the training must be autistic or have a learning disability.

Ms Gibson said: "With our support and the support of the commissioners, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, this could be the chance for someone to potentially help save lives."

Kicking off later this year, the mandatory training will be facilitated by a team of three experts.

The trainers will be either autistic individuals or those with learning disabilities, bringing their lived experiences to the training.

Autism Hampshire, a leader in providing diverse training courses and workshops for school staff, parents and autistic residents, will continue to offer bespoke training tailored to individual and organisational needs.

For those interested in applying for the new job openings, they are encouraged to visit the Autism Hampshire website: autismhampshire.org.uk/jobs

To find out more about training opportunities, visit autismhampshire.org.uk/how-we-can-help/training-consultancy

The first training role is open for applications in Eastleigh, see: careers.avenuesgroup.org.uk/jobs/vacancy/expert-with-lived-experience-trainer-eastleigh-5151/5169/description/