Expert with Lived Experience Co-Trainer Training

Course Overview

The 3-day course prepares those who wish to co-deliver the Part 2, Tier 2 single day training session as an Expert with Lived Experience, accompanied by a facilitator trainer.

There are separate courses for co-trainers wishing to deliver the learning disability session and the autism session. Co-trainers can be dual trained but are not able to co-deliver both sessions to groups.

Our qualified, NHS approved lead trainer will deliver this course, supported by our experts with lived experience co-trainers. You will gain the experience of seeing the face-to-face course delivered and be provided with additional information and adaptable practices to support co-delivery once approved.

We actively encourage attendees to share their own experiences during the session. Your insight is welcome, and this is a space for open discussion and learning from one another.

Co-trainers keep the training authentic and grounded in lived experience. By sharing yours, you help learners understand the real-life needs, challenges and strengths of people with a learning disability and autistic people.

This 3-day programme supports you to develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to:

• Share your lived experience safely and effectively in a training context
• Contribute meaningfully to session delivery
• Support facilitators in delivering inclusive, person-centred training
• Help learners understand neurodiversity and disability from a real perspective
• Build confidence in public speaking and group facilitation
• Understand training delivery methods and pedagogy

Who is this programme for?

This training is designed for:

• People with a diagnosis of autism who wish to share their lived experience
• People with a learning disability who want to co-deliver training
• Individuals who are comfortable speaking about their experiences in group settings
• People with support needs who can access training with appropriate adjustments
• Anyone who wants to help others understand neurodiversity and disability

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and support needs. If you need specific adjustments, support, or have accessibility requirements, please contact us to discuss how we can make the training work for you.

What You'll Develop

• Understanding the Oliver McGowan story and its significance
• How to share your lived experience effectively and safely
• Managing emotions when discussing personal experiences
• Boundaries and self-care in a training delivery role
• Introduction to training delivery and facilitation
• Public speaking and group communication skills
• Responding to questions and challenging scenarios
• Working collaboratively with facilitators and other co-trainers
• The wider picture of learning disability and autism training
• The impact of co-trainer contributions on learner outcomes
• Equality, diversity, and inclusion in training delivery
• Your rights and responsibilities as a recognised trainer

Why Lived Experience Co-Trainers Matter

When learners hear directly from people with lived experience of learning disability or autism, they tend to gain greater understanding, empathy and commitment to better care and support.

What You'll Receive

Accessibility & Support

We're committed to making this training accessible for everyone. Adjustments and support we can provide include:

• Longer breaks or reduced daily hours across 4-5 days
• Quiet spaces for rest during training days
• Visual supports, written materials, or easy-read formats
• One-to-one support or communication aids
• Dietary requirements and accessibility facilities
• Transport assistance or home-based attendance options
• Any other adjustments to make training work for you

Please discuss your needs when booking. No adjustment is too small or too complex. We will work with you to make the training accessible.