Using all the tools and guidance you’ve learnt from this e-book; you can now start to create PBS plans. Below, we have put together a suggested step-by-step process to follow when creating and implementing a new PBS plan for a service user.
Creating a successful Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plan is a meticulous process that requires collaboration, a deep understanding of the individual, and a commitment to continuous improvement. In this chapter, we’ll outline a step-by-step guide to developing and maintaining person-centred PBS plans that truly make a difference in the lives of service users.
1. Start with a comprehensive assessment
Gather detailed information
Begin by collecting comprehensive data about the service user. This includes understanding their life history, medical background, and behavioural patterns. Use tools like ABC Charts, Motivational Assessment Scales, and quality of life assessments to build a complete picture.
Engage the service user and their circle
Involve the service user in the assessment process as much as possible and gather input from their family, carers, and external agencies. This collaboration ensures that the PBS plan is grounded in a holistic understanding of the individual’s needs and context.
Identify strengths and challenges
Focus on identifying the service user’s strengths, interests, and areas where they experience difficulties. A strengths-based approach is key to developing proactive strategies that build on what the individual can do well, rather than focusing solely on managing behaviours of concern.
2. Develop a person-centred PBS plan
Set clear, achievable goals
Establish specific, measurable goals that align with the service user’s interests and aspirations. These goals should be realistic, reflecting both short-term milestones and long-term outcomes aimed at enhancing the individual’s quality of life.
Design proactive strategies
Proactive strategies are at the heart of an effective PBS plan. These strategies should be personalised to prevent behaviours of concern by addressing the service user’s needs in a positive and constructive way. Examples include increasing participation in preferred activities, modifying the environment to reduce triggers, and improving communication methods.
Prepare reactive strategies
While the focus is on proactive approaches, it’s important to include reactive strategies for when behaviours escalate. These should be the least restrictive options available, aimed at ensuring safety and de-escalation without compromising the individual’s dignity.
Develop crisis strategies
In cases of known risky behaviors that could disrupt business continuity or lead to hospital admissions, it's essential to have a crisis plan. This plan should outline what to do when all other strategies have failed, including using restrictive practices if necessary. It may also involve contacting the police, crisis teams, or following internal escalation procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.
3. Implement the PBS plan daily
Integrate into daily routines
Once the PBS plan is developed, the next step is to integrate it into the service user’s daily routines. It’s essential that all staff members understand their roles in implementing the strategies consistently.
Encourage collaboration and communication
Ensure that everyone involved in the service user’s care, including family members and external agencies, is aware of the PBS plan and their specific roles in its implementation. Regular communication is key to maintaining alignment and consistency.
Provide ongoing support and training
Continued support and training for staff are crucial to the successful implementation of the PBS plan. Use reflective practices and regular team meetings to discuss challenges, share successes, and reinforce key strategies.
4. Monitor and adjust the PBS plan
Regularly review progress
PBS is a dynamic process that requires continuous monitoring. Regularly review the service user’s progress against the goals set in the PBS plan. Use data from incident reports, ABC Charts, and other tracking tools to assess what’s working and what isn’t.
Adapt strategies as needed
Be prepared to adjust the PBS plan as the service user’s needs and circumstances change. Flexibility is key—what works today might need to be refined tomorrow, and that’s part of the ongoing process of providing effective support.
Involve the service user in reviews
Keep the service user involved in the review process. Their feedback is invaluable for understanding their experiences and making the plan more effective.
5. Overcome challenges in PBS implementation
Address time and resource limitations
Time pressures and limited resources are common challenges in PBS. To overcome these, ensure that your team is empowered with the right tools, training, and support to implement the PBS plan effectively. It can also be a good idea to schedule in time dedicated to reviewing how an individual’s PBS plan is going either on a weekly or monthly basis.
Maintain consistency across the team
Consistency is crucial for the success of a PBS plan. Make sure that all team members are aligned with the plan and committed to applying the strategies consistently. Regular check-ins and training refreshers can help maintain this alignment.
6. Collaborate with external agencies and families
Share insights and strategies
Families and external agencies can provide unique perspectives that enhance the PBS plan. They may have a more detailed context about the individual’s life that is critical to a PBS plan’s success. Work together to ensure a unified approach to supporting the service user, sharing insights and strategies that can be applied across different environments.
By following these steps, you can create and maintain PBS plans that are truly person-centred, proactive, and effective. Remember, a successful PBS plan is not just a document—it’s a living, evolving process that adapts to the changing needs of the individual, ensuring they receive the best possible support to lead a fulfilling life.
Speak with the Log my Care team about levelling up PBS
Want to talk to a member of the Log my Care team about levelling up PBS plans in your organisation? Book some time with the team to get a personalised demo of our PBS plans feature and other complex care features such as Goals & Outcomes and Incident Management.
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