Behaviour support is a crucial part of the NDIS, aimed at improving quality of life for NDIS participants. But what exactly does it entail? This article unpacks the key concepts, processes, and goals of behaviour support, offering insights for individuals, families, support workers, and NDIS providers.
Understanding the Basics
At its core, behaviour support seeks to understand why certain behaviours occur. This involves:
- Identifying Behaviours of Concern. Not all behaviours require intervention. A "behaviour of concern" is typically one that poses a risk to the individual or those around them. This can include, but is not limited to, property damage, aggression (verbal or physical), unsafe eating habits, or other actions that compromise safety and well-being.
- Determining the Function of Behaviour: Every behaviour serves a purpose. Is it a way to gain attention, escape an unpleasant situation, obtain a desired object, or fulfil a sensory need? Understanding the underlying function is crucial for developing effective support strategies.
The PBS Intervention Timeline
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) intervention isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's a process that typically involves:
- Initial Assessment: This stage involves gathering information about the individual's history, current behaviours, and potential risk factors. Assessments and structured interviews are used to build a comprehensive picture.
- Interim Behaviour Support Plan (IBSP): An IBSP is often developed within a month of the initial assessment, especially if there are immediate safety concerns. It outlines initial strategies to manage behaviours of concern and ensure the individual's well-being.
- Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA): The FBA is a more in-depth investigation to pinpoint the function of specific behaviours. This often involves direct observation, data collection, and further interviews with the individual and their support network.
- Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plan (CBSP): Building on the FBA, the CBSP provides a detailed roadmap for behaviour support. It includes long-term goals, proactive strategies, reactive strategies, and a plan for monitoring and evaluation. It also includes a breakdown of triggers, and tailored strategies.
- Implementation & Ongoing Support: The plan is put into action, with consistent implementation by support staff, family members, and other relevant individuals. Regular monitoring and adjustments are essential to ensure the plan remains effective and responsive to the individual's changing needs.
Restrictive Practices: Reduction and Elimination
Restrictive practices are interventions that limit an individual's rights, freedom of movement, or access to activities. These practices are only acceptable when there is a demonstrable risk of harm and must always be the least restrictive option available. Examples may include environmental restrictions, physical interventions, or medication used for behavioural control.
The goal is to reduce and ultimately eliminate the use of restrictive practices. This requires:
- Careful Assessment: Identifying why the restrictive practice is currently in place.
- Proactive Strategies: Implementing positive behaviour support strategies to address the underlying causes of the behaviour.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regularly reviewing the effectiveness of the plan and making adjustments as needed.
- Collaboration: Working closely with the individual, their family, support staff, and other professionals to ensure a consistent and rights-based approach.
Working Together for Positive Outcomes
Effective behaviour support requires a collaborative effort. NDIS providers, support coordinators, support workers, participants and families all have a role to play in creating a supportive environment that promotes positive behaviour change and enhances the individual's quality of life.
By understanding the principles of behaviour support, prioritising person-centred approaches, and working together to minimise restrictive practices, we can empower individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
