Behaviours of Concern: A Guide for Australian NDIS Participants and Families

Behaviours of Concern: A Guide for Australian NDIS Participants and Families

Navigating the NDIS can be challenging, especially when behaviours of concern arise. This guide aims to provide Australian NDIS Participants and their families with a clearer understanding of behaviours of concern, how the NDIS can help, and practical steps to take to access the right support. See our complete NDIS Complex Behaviour Support guide for more in-depth information.

What are Behaviours of Concern?

Behaviours of concern are actions that may significantly impact a Participant's quality of life or the safety of themselves or others. These behaviours can manifest in various ways and can be triggered by a multitude of factors, including unmet needs, communication difficulties, environmental stressors, or underlying medical conditions. Importantly, these behaviours should be understood within the context of the individual's disability and not simply dismissed as willful misconduct.

Examples of behaviours of concern can include:

• Aggression: Physical or verbal aggression towards others.
• Self-Injurious Behaviour: Actions that cause harm to oneself.
• Property Destruction: Damaging or destroying property.
• Absconding: Leaving a safe environment without supervision.
• Socially Inappropriate Behaviour: Actions that violate social norms or expectations.

It's crucial to remember that exhibiting these behaviours does not define a person. Understanding the why behind the behaviour is the first step towards finding effective strategies for support.

Key NDIS Considerations for Behaviours of Concern

The NDIS recognises that behaviours of concern are often linked to disability and require specialist support. Your NDIS Plan can provide funding for various supports to address these behaviours, focusing on positive behaviour support practices. Here are some key considerations:

• Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA): This is a crucial first step. An FBA is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified professional (e.g., a Behaviour Support Practitioner) to identify the triggers, functions (reasons), and consequences of the behaviour of concern. The FBA informs the development of a Positive Behaviour Support Plan.

• Positive Behaviour Support Plan (PBSP): A PBSP outlines strategies to improve a Participant's quality of life and reduce behaviours of concern. It focuses on teaching new skills, modifying the environment, and providing proactive support to prevent the behaviour from occurring in the first place. A PBSP should be person-centered and consider the Participant's strengths, needs, and preferences. The NDIS requires PBSPs to adhere to restrictive practice guidelines when these practices are necessary.

• Restrictive Practices: These are interventions that limit a person's rights or freedom of movement. Restrictive practices should only be used as a last resort, when all other strategies have been exhausted, and must be implemented in accordance with NDIS legislation and guidelines. Any PBSP that includes restrictive practices requires authorisation from the relevant state or territory authority.

• Funding Categories: Several NDIS funding categories can be used to support Participants with behaviours of concern. These include:

  • Improved Relationships: This category can fund Behaviour Support Practitioners to conduct FBAs, develop PBSPs, and provide training to Support Workers and family members.
  • Increased Social and Community Participation: This category can fund supports to help Participants engage in social activities and develop positive relationships, reducing the likelihood of behaviours of concern.
  • Improved Daily Living Skills: This category can fund supports to teach Participants new skills to manage their emotions, communicate their needs, and cope with challenging situations.
  • Specialist Support Coordination: This category can fund a Specialist Support Coordinator to help Participants navigate the NDIS, connect with relevant services, and implement their PBSP.

• NDIS Commission: The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission plays a crucial role in regulating the quality and safety of NDIS services, including behaviour support. It is responsible for registering Behaviour Support Practitioners and ensuring they adhere to ethical and professional standards. If you have concerns about the quality of behaviour support services you are receiving, you can contact the NDIS Commission.

Practical Steps for NDIS Participants and Families

Here are some practical steps you can take to access NDIS support for behaviours of concern:

1. Document the Behaviours: Keep a detailed record of the behaviours of concern, including when they occur, what triggers them, and what happens before and after. This information will be invaluable when seeking support from professionals.

2. Talk to Your Planner or Support Coordinator: Discuss your concerns with your NDIS Planner or Support Coordinator. They can help you identify relevant funding categories and connect with qualified Behaviour Support Practitioners.

3. Engage a Qualified Behaviour Support Practitioner: Look for a Behaviour Support Practitioner who is registered with the NDIS Commission and has experience working with individuals with similar needs. Ask about their approach to behaviour support and ensure they prioritize positive, person-centered strategies.

4. Participate Actively in the FBA and PBSP Development: Your input is crucial. Share your knowledge of the Participant's strengths, needs, and preferences to ensure the PBSP is tailored to their individual circumstances.

5. Ensure Support Workers are Trained: Make sure Support Workers who work with the Participant are properly trained in implementing the PBSP. They should understand the strategies outlined in the plan and be able to respond effectively to behaviours of concern. You can utilise funding for training support workers under Capacity Building supports.

6. Regularly Review and Update the PBSP: The PBSP should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains effective and relevant. As the Participant's needs change, the plan may need to be adjusted.

7. Advocate for Your Needs: Don't be afraid to advocate for the supports you need. If you feel your NDIS Plan is not adequately addressing behaviours of concern, you can request a Plan review.

8. Consider Peer Support: Connecting with other families who are facing similar challenges can be incredibly helpful. Sharing experiences and learning from each other can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Many disability organisations offer peer support groups.

Conclusion

Behaviours of concern can present significant challenges for NDIS Participants and their families. However, with the right supports and a proactive, person-centered approach, it is possible to improve quality of life and reduce the occurrence of these behaviours. By understanding the NDIS processes, accessing appropriate funding, and working collaboratively with qualified professionals, you can create a more positive and supportive environment for yourself or your loved one. Remember to utilise the information and resources available, including our comprehensive guide on ndis-complex-behaviour-support, and advocate for the supports you need to thrive.