Positive Risk Management and Autism Spectrum Conditions

Traditional methods of risk assessment are full of charts and scoring systems, but the person, their objectives, dreams and life can seem to be lost somewhere in the pages of tick boxes and statistics.

Autism is a term used since the 1940s to describe a different developmental pattern that emerges in early childhood but persists into adult life. It can have a major impact on how people learn, interact and behave. As the National Autistic Society (2005) notes, people with autism are often so single-minded about their interest that they are unaware of the effect that their actions have on others, the consequences to themselves or that it could lead to putting themselves in danger. People with autistic spectrum disorders often do not understand the motives of other people and can become unwitting accomplices in criminal behaviour.

The purpose of this course

• Support organisations and their staff to develop an understanding of the Autism Spectrum and its impact on risk.
• To provide a forum for the sharing of experience and good practice including practical activities
• Explore innovative practice – looking for alternative approaches to risk that recognises that life and risk are inseparable, and look at risk from the point of view of the person, their family and friends and the wider community, rather than solely from the point of view of the service provider.
• Look at positive risk management focusing on what is important to the person – the purpose of any risk assessment is just as much about the happiness of the person, their family and the community as it is about their safety.
• Enable those working with individuals with Autism to gain valuable continuing professional development and to reflect on their own practice.

The key content

• Exploring the term Autism Spectrum.
• Positive risk management
• Ensuring safety and well-being.
• Supporting people through person-centred approaches and enabling environments.

Expected Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of ASC on risk management.
• Consider and discuss barriers to positive risk management.
• Demonstrate an understanding of a person-centred approach seeks to focus on people’s rights to have the lifestyle that they chose, including the right to make ‘bad’ decisions.
• Develop skills and strategies to plan an appropriate individualised programme/person-centred plan with an individual that will ensure a good quality of life and the chance to take risks.