Positive Behaviour Support

PBS prioritises quality of life and person centeredness alongside behaviour analysis. It  has a human rights base.  ESPA continues to increase staff awareness through training and professional links such as the PBS North East and Cumbria community of practice.  Our Person Centred Care and Support Plans provide clear direction on how to proactively create opportunities for positive and valued behaviour.  Such behaviour of concern is always placed in the context of a person’s life and assessed using the principles of behaviour analysis.  Behaviour Support Plans in ESPA are usually to help the person manage anxiety.

Providing support within a PBS culture is most tested when individuals experience anxiety. We recognise that having autism in a “neuro-typical world” can often result in a person experiencing high stress levels.   This can then be perceived by others as “challenging behaviour” which is most effectively managed with low arousal approaches.

• Low Arousal is a collection of behaviour management strategies ESPA employs which focus on the avoidance of confrontation.  This is primarily achieved by the reduction of triggers or cue behaviours which would escalate an individual’s anxiety levels.
• This approach is highly valued within ESPA and is the practical means by which staff act in ways that are consistent with building trusting relationships.  The staff’s ability to support others when they are most distressed also helps to develop resilient relationships.