Paula McGowan grew up in Liverpool and is married to Tom McGowan who is a Senior Officer in the Air Force. Paula is an early year’s teacher and specialises in children who have additional needs.

Following the avoidable death of her youngest child Oliver, Paula has dedicated her life to campaigning for equal health care for people who have autism and Intellectual Disabilities.

Paula launched a parliamentary petition asking for all doctors and nurses to receive mandatory training in Learning disability and Autism awareness. She ferociously argued that autism must be included. On 22 October 2018, her petition was debated and gained cross party support. As a direct consequence Government announced that all NHS and Social Care Staff would receive The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training in Learning Disability and Autism.

A recent independent Learning Disability Mortality Review (LeDeR) unanimously concluded Oliver’s death was avoidable. The review made 31 recommendations.

Paula has recently moved to Australia with her husband but her campaigning continues to go from strength to strength. She continues to work with Government in the design and development of Oliver’s training.

Paula continues to speak at Universities, medical schools and hospital trusts across the Globe.

Follow Paula on Twitter: @PaulaMc007