Hundreds of psychiatrists across England are set to boost their autism expertise with two brand-new training courses funded by Health Education England (HEE).
Major Autism Training Initiative Kicks Off
The first course launches on 16 March 2023, already enrolling 650 doctors. Over two years, the programme aims to train 1,350 psychiatrists nationwide. It’s a huge step forward in autism care, co-designed and delivered alongside autistic people and the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Two Courses Tailored for Impact
- A short foundation course targets psychiatrists working in diverse settings.
- A longer, advanced course is designed for psychiatrists and trainees seeking specialist autism skills.
Both courses build on existing psychiatry training, including the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training. They focus on delivering core national autism competencies key to both general and specialist psychiatric care.
Experts Back the Drive for Better Autism Care
Professor Ashok Roy, Clinical Lead for the National Learning Disabilities and Autism Programme at HEE, said: “We are delighted to launch this vital national training programme for psychiatrists. Better training across varied settings will play a key role in preventing unnecessary mental health hospital admissions for autistic people.
“Plus, the enhanced development programme will help build the specialist expertise needed to lead autism services in the future.”
NHS England director for learning disability and autism, Tom Cahill, added: “This programme marks a major milestone, showing our commitment to better support and care for autistic people. We want NHS staff and psychiatrists to have every chance to develop specialist autism knowledge and skills, improving outcomes for those who need it most.”
