Understanding Positive Behaviour Support: An Easy Read Guide
Welcome to DisabilityInsights! We know navigating the NDIS and understanding different supports can feel overwhelming. Today, we're breaking down Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) in an easy-to-understand way. PBS can be a game-changer for NDIS Participants who experience behaviours that impact their quality of life or the safety of themselves and others. It's all about understanding why behaviours happen and creating plans to support positive change. See our complete What Is A Positive Behaviour Support Plan guide for more detailed information.
What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?
Simply put, Positive Behaviour Support is a framework used to understand and address behaviours of concern. It focuses on improving a person's quality of life by teaching new skills, changing environments, and reducing the need for behaviours that might be challenging or unsafe. Instead of just focusing on stopping unwanted behaviours, PBS looks at the bigger picture:
- Understanding the "Why": What triggers the behaviour? What needs are being met by the behaviour?
- Teaching New Skills: Helping the Participant learn alternative ways to communicate their needs and cope with challenges.
- Changing the Environment: Making adjustments to the Participant's surroundings to reduce triggers and increase opportunities for success.
- Building Relationships: Strengthening relationships with family, friends, and Support Workers to create a supportive and understanding network.
Who can benefit from Positive Behaviour Support?
PBS is helpful for NDIS Participants of any age, with a range of disabilities, who exhibit behaviours that impact their wellbeing or the wellbeing of others. These behaviours might include:
- Aggression
- Self-injury
- Refusal to participate in activities
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Anxiety and distress
Key NDIS Considerations for Positive Behaviour Support
The NDIS recognizes the importance of PBS in supporting Participants to live their best lives. Here's what you need to know when considering PBS within your NDIS Plan:
- Funding: PBS can be funded under various categories within your NDIS Plan, most commonly under Capacity Building supports. This could include funding for:
- Behaviour Support Practitioner: A qualified professional who will assess the Participant, develop a behaviour support plan, and provide training to Support Workers and family.
- Training for Support Workers: To equip Support Workers with the skills and knowledge to implement the behaviour support plan effectively.
- Environmental Modifications: To make changes to the Participant's environment that reduce triggers and promote positive behaviour (e.g., sensory tools, visual supports).
- Behaviour Support Plan: A crucial element of PBS. This is a detailed, individualised plan developed by a Behaviour Support Practitioner, outlining strategies to support positive behaviour change. The plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
- Regulated Restrictive Practices: The NDIS takes the use of restrictive practices (e.g., physical restraint, seclusion) very seriously. These practices should only be used as a last resort, in accordance with strict guidelines, and must be approved by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. PBS aims to reduce the need for restrictive practices by focusing on proactive strategies.
- Finding a Qualified Practitioner: It is crucial to find a registered NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner with the right qualifications and experience. Ask about their qualifications, experience working with individuals with similar needs, and their approach to PBS. The NDIS Commission website has information on finding registered providers.
- NDIS Plan Review: When requesting funding for PBS, be prepared to provide evidence of the need for this support. This may include reports from therapists, doctors, or other professionals. Highlight how PBS will help the Participant achieve their NDIS goals and improve their quality of life.
Practical Steps to Accessing Positive Behaviour Support
Here's a step-by-step guide to accessing PBS through the NDIS:
- Identify the Need: Clearly identify the behaviours of concern and how they are impacting the Participant's life. Document specific examples.
- Consult with Professionals: Talk to the Participant's GP, therapist, or other relevant professionals. They can provide assessments and recommendations.
- Gather Evidence: Collect reports, assessments, and any other relevant documentation to support your request for PBS funding.
- Discuss with your LAC or Support Coordinator: Discuss your goals and the identified need for PBS with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Support Coordinator. They can help you navigate the NDIS process and prepare for your plan review.
- Request Funding in your NDIS Plan: Clearly request funding for Behaviour Support in your NDIS Plan, specifying the number of hours you need and the types of support required (e.g., Behaviour Support Practitioner, training for Support Workers).
- Find a Registered Provider: Once you have funding, research and choose a registered NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner. Consider factors such as their experience, qualifications, and approach to PBS.
- Develop and Implement the Behaviour Support Plan: Work collaboratively with the Behaviour Support Practitioner, the Participant, and their support network to develop a comprehensive and individualized behaviour support plan.
- Regularly Review and Update the Plan: The behaviour support plan should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it is meeting the Participant's needs and achieving positive outcomes.
Finding Support Workers who can implement PBS Plans
While the Behaviour Support Practitioner develops the plan, it's often Support Workers who implement it day-to-day. It's important to ensure these workers are properly trained and equipped. You can achieve this by:
- Specifying Training Requirements: When engaging Support Workers, make it clear that they need to be trained in the Participant's behaviour support plan.
- Including Training Costs in the NDIS Plan: Ensure funding is available for Support Workers to attend relevant training.
- Using Platforms Wisely: Some online platforms can connect you with Support Workers. Look for platforms that allow you to specify required skills and experience. When using platforms to connect with workers, clearly outline the need for PBS implementation skills.
Conclusion
Positive Behaviour Support is a powerful tool for empowering NDIS Participants to live fulfilling lives. By understanding the principles of PBS, working with qualified professionals, and actively participating in the development and implementation of a behaviour support plan, Participants can achieve positive behaviour change and improve their overall quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your LAC, Support Coordinator, or a registered NDIS provider for more information and support. Remember, you're not alone on this journey!