Sheffield Hallam University and the Learning Disability Nursing and Social Work staff team are pleased to announce that Paula McGowan will be visiting us on the 11th December 2019 to talk about the life and untimely death of her son Oliver, aged 18 years old.

Paula (https://www.olivermcgowan.org/) has worked tirelessly since the death of Oliver to improve the knowledge and skills of all healthcare professionals in working with people with learning disabilities and autism. She led and presented a petition with over fifty thousand signatories to UK government. Her actions have become a real catalyst for change and have led to the Department of Health consulting with Service Users, families, carers and professional groups regarding the introduction of mandatory training for all health professionals in learning disability and autism. The outcome of the consultation is due to report later this year.

Paula will share her experiences and explore her role as an agent for positive change. She will share with us her hopes and visions for the future.

The event is free as Paula is giving up her time to help raise awareness and secure a better experience for people with learning disabilities and autism in the future. There will be limited availability so early booking is advised. Tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

You can book your place here.

Should you have any accessibility requirements please contact the event coordinator on j.murphy@shu.ac.uk for support.

Demand is likely to be high on the day, and entry will not be guaranteed without a ticket.