Implementing Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) through the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Implementing Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) involves a structured, person-centred approach to managing and reducing behaviours of concern while promoting the individual’s quality of life. Here's what participants and their caregivers can expect:
1. Understanding the Role of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
PBS is an evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to support individuals who display behaviours of concern that may limit their life opportunities, impact others, or pose risks to safety. At its core, PBS focuses on improving the quality of life of individuals with disability through person-centred, human rights-based, and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) principles.
2. Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs)
A Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) is critical for implementing PBS. This document outlines:
The behaviours of concern.
Functional behavioural assessments, which help understand the causes of the behaviour.
Strategies to address behaviours of concern, including proactive interventions to prevent escalation and teaching new skills.
Clear protocols on restrictive practices, if necessary.
Participants, caregivers, and NDIS providers work together to create BSPs tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals. Participants and their supporters must be involved in the development and review process.
3. Restrictive Practices: What You Should Know
Restrictive practices refer to interventions that limit a person’s rights or freedom of movement, such as seclusion, physical restraints, or chemical restraints. Under the NDIS, the use of regulated restrictive practices is strictly controlled and subject to several conditions:
Seclusion: Confinement in a room or space.
Physical restraint: Using physical force to restrict movement.
Chemical restraint: Using medication to influence behaviour.
Mechanical restraint: Using devices to restrict movement.
Environmental restraint: Restricting access to certain environments.
The use of these practices requires authorisation and must be part of a behaviour support plan. The goal is to reduce and eventually eliminate these practices, ensuring they are only used as a last resort, in the least restrictive way, and for the shortest possible time.
4. Support from Specialist Behaviour Practitioners
Participants and caregivers can expect support from NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioners, who are qualified professionals responsible for developing and implementing BSPs. These practitioners collaborate with families, caregivers, and other providers to ensure the individual’s needs are met safely and effectively. Providers who use restrictive practices must be registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
5. Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
The implementation of a BSP is not static; it must be regularly monitored and reviewed to ensure it is effective. Key outcomes such as improvements in behaviour and quality of life are tracked, and adjustments to the plan are made when necessary. This continuous cycle of evaluation ensures that the participant’s supports evolve to meet changing needs.
6. Rights and Protections for Participants
PBS, as implemented through the NDIS, aims to uphold the human rights of people with disability. This includes ensuring they have informed choice and control over their supports, while restrictive practices are minimised and replaced with positive interventions whenever possible. Caregivers should expect open communication and involvement in all decision-making processes, including clear information about the use of any restrictive practices.
7. Compliance and Accountability
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission plays a crucial role in regulating and monitoring the use of restrictive practices and ensuring that providers meet their obligations under the NDIS. Providers who do not comply with these regulations may face compliance actions
In summary, participants and caregivers involved in PBS through the NDIS should expect a person-centred, evidence-based approach aimed at improving quality of life while ensuring safe, ethical, and legally compliant behaviour management strategies.
Written By: Ben Dowton
With over 5 years of experience, Ben Dowton has worked extensively with individuals of all ages who have complex behavioural needs.
He is highly skilled in creating and implementing positive behaviour support plans that promote individual growth and development while also reducing challenging behaviours. Ben is passionate about providing person-centred care and ensuring that each individual's unique needs are met with empathy and respect.