Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is not just a framework for managing individual behaviours but a philosophy that should permeate every level of an organisation. From senior management down to frontline staff, everyone must be on board for PBS to be effective.
Gaining senior management buy-in for PBS
To truly embed PBS, it’s essential to secure buy-in at the organisational level, particularly from senior management. Without their support, even the most well-intentioned PBS plans can fall short. Senior management plays a pivotal role in setting the tone and allocating the necessary resources to implement PBS effectively.
Securing the support of senior leadership is often one of the most challenging but crucial steps in embedding PBS within an organisation. Leaders are typically focused on stability, risk management, and business growth, so it’s vital to frame PBS in a way that aligns with these priorities.
Leveraging tools and data
To appeal to senior leadership, it’s crucial to demonstrate that PBS is supported by robust data and established tools.
Use a variety of tools to demonstrate the effectiveness of PBS:
- Motivational assessments and ABC charts: These tools help in understanding service users' behaviours and the outcomes of PBS interventions.
- Quality of life tools, PERMA model, and capable environment framework: These provide a broader perspective on the benefits of PBS, not just in terms of behaviour management, but also in enhancing overall well-being.
- Incident dashboards: Incident dashboards can be used to showcase the reduction in incidents influenced by successful PBS plans.
Data collection
Collecting and presenting data in a clear, logical format is vital. Using digital tools such as Log my Care to organise and report this data, makes it easily accessible for analysis. Senior leaders are more likely to support PBS if they can see that it’s underpinned by solid, quantifiable evidence.
Just some of the data available with Log my Care's Incident Management feature:
Building a case for PBS
Once you’ve addressed risk concerns, the next step is to build a compelling case for PBS by highlighting the positive outcomes it can achieve and its benefits to the organisation.
Focus on tangible benefits
To persuade senior leadership, focus on the tangible benefits of PBS, such as improving outcomes for service users and enhancing the organisation’s reputation and business prospects.
Demonstrate through success stories
Share success stories that demonstrate the effectiveness of PBS plans. Highlight cases where PBS has enabled service users to transition out of secure units, reducing restrictive practices and support needs. These examples show how PBS improves quality of life and makes financial and operational sense.
Emphasise the long-term prospects
Highlight the long-term benefits of PBS, including increased business opportunities and an enhanced reputation. Successful implementation can position the organisation as a leader, attracting more referrals and becoming the preferred choice for commissioners.
Lead with a value and evidence approach
Emphasise that PBS is value-driven and evidence-based, aligning with the organisation’s mission. This focus on ethical and practical benefits appeals to senior leaders and commissioners.
Provide senior leaders with both positive stories and robust data to demonstrate PBS's effectiveness. This dual approach appeals to both the emotional and logical sides of decision-making, increasing the likelihood of support.
Present PBS as a theory-driven, evidence-based approach that aligns with the organisation’s goals. By showing that PBS is grounded in research and supported by data, you can reassure senior management that it’s a sound investment.
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