In an earlier post↗ we spoke of finding the right people to support Mitchell, and that once onboard, teaching them what they needed to know.

But what do they need to know?!

A lot of the key information Mitchell’s support team needs comes from a document put together by Mitchell’s Psychologist – a Positive Behaviour Support Plan (PBSP).

Mitchell’s PBSP explains the causes and underlying functions of his behaviours, particularly the challenging ones, so we have a shared understanding of them.  It equips us with appropriate strategies and skills to prevent and/or address challenging behaviours which have concerning consequences for Mitchell and those around him.  The aim is to strengthen Mitchell’s positive behaviours and personal interests.

The strategies described in the PBSP have been informed by the daily behavioural records maintained by Mitchell’s family and support workers since early 2019.  These records, using templates supplied by the Psychologist, serve as feedback to keep the PBSP up-to-date and effective.

The most important part of the PBSP is understanding it and putting it into practice.

The most important part of the PBSP is understanding it and putting it into practice.  Mitchell’s Psychologist provided training to the Mitchell’s family and the support team.  This is followed up with site visits to smooth out issues, build a better understanding of the details in the plan, and refine each team member’s practice.

Mitchell’s family and support team, guided by the Psychologist, continually review what practices work to help Mitchell live a better, more enjoyable life.

A few people who are familiar with the disability service sector have asked why we bother with a PBSP as there are no restrictive practices in Mitchell’s life.  The answer is simple, this plan helps us keep such practices out of his life!

Mitchell’s backstory↗ tells you about restrictive practices and why they should only be used as a last resort.