HACS Training Transforms Autism and Learning Disability Care at Hillingdon Hospital

Hillingdon Hospital has reported significant improvements in the care of autistic adults and individuals with learning disabilities following a successful collaboration with Hillingdon Autistic Care & Support (HACS).

In May 2024, Cheryl — the Safeguarding Lead for Adults at Hillingdon Hospital — was approached by Natalie from HACS, who had secured funding to deliver specialist autism training within the hospital. Recognising the importance of enhancing staff confidence and competence, Cheryl and the Safeguarding Adults team welcomed the opportunity to embed this expertise into their Level 3 Safeguarding Adults training programme.

Initially allocated a 60‑minute training slot, the session quickly proved so valuable and engaging that it was expanded to 90 minutes based on exceptionally positive staff feedback. Although team changes meant Katherine could no longer continue delivering the sessions, Natalie remained committed, continuing to deliver high‑quality training to staff across the Trust.

To date, over 500 members of hospital staff have received training from Natalie, including registered clinicians, healthcare assistants, and support workers. Feedback has repeatedly highlighted Natalie’s compassion, expertise, and her ability to translate complex needs into practical, meaningful guidance.

Positive Impact Across the Hospital

The training has had a clear and measurable impact across the Trust:

Staff are seeking support earlier for autistic and learning‑disabled patients, leading to more timely interventions and better outcomes.

Teams across departments — including Outpatients, Theatres, and A&E — have proactively reached out for additional guidance.

A&E staff are increasingly recognising the challenges autistic patients face and implementing adjustments that make the hospital experience calmer and safer.

Staff now routinely access Health Passports uploaded to CERNER, helping them understand individual needs before providing care.

HACS is being actively recommended to autistic patients who may benefit from social support and community-based services.

In addition to delivering study‑day sessions, Natalie has also provided bespoke training to Theatres and A&E consultants, with overwhelmingly positive engagement and feedback.

A Message of Thanks

Cheryl shared her appreciation for the partnership, noting:

Natalie has been incredibly supportive with study days and staff development. Her compassion for training shines through, and the impact she’s had on both staff and patients has been hugely positive. We are grateful for her continued commitment to improving the experience of autistic and learning‑disabled people in our hospital.