A positive behaviour support assessment helps a practitioner understand why a person may display behaviours of concern and identify the support they may need. The process can involve gathering information about the person’s daily routines, communication, environment, health, strengths and individual circumstances.
For NDIS participants, the assessment helps build a clearer understanding of what may be contributing to a behaviour and which strategies could support their safety, wellbeing, communication and independence. The process should be person-centred and consider input from the participant, their family, carers and support team where appropriate.
Understanding what happens during an assessment can help participants and families prepare for the process and know what to expect next.
What Is a Positive Behaviour Support Assessment?
A positive behaviour support assessment helps a qualified practitioner understand behaviours of concern in the context of a person’s individual circumstances. It considers their needs, strengths, communication, environment and everyday experiences to build a clearer picture of what may be influencing their behaviour. The purpose is not simply to stop a behaviour but to understand the reasons behind it and identify appropriate support strategies. This approach can help improve the person’s wellbeing, safety, communication and independence.
STARR Care provides positive behaviour support services in South Hedland to support participants with their individual needs and goals.
Why Might an NDIS Participant Need an Assessment?
A positive behaviour support assessment may be helpful when a participant experiences behaviours of concern that affect their daily life, safety or wellbeing. It can help identify possible reasons for these behaviours and guide the support they receive.
An assessment may be useful in situations such as:
- Safety or Wellbeing Concerns: Behaviours that may put the participant or others at risk.
- Communication Difficulties: Difficulty expressing needs, discomfort or frustration.
- Changes in Behaviour: Noticeable changes in behaviour or daily routines.
- Challenges with Participation: Difficulties taking part in home, social or community activities.
- Understanding Triggers: Identifying possible triggers and exploring more suitable support strategies.
Every participant has different needs and circumstances. Not every NDIS participant requires an assessment, and a practitioner can help determine whether it may be appropriate for the individual.
What Happens During a Positive Behaviour Support Assessment?
A positive behaviour support assessment involves gathering information to understand the participant’s needs, experiences and behaviours of concern. The process varies depending on the person’s circumstances, and the practitioner may use several approaches to build a clearer picture.
- Understanding the Participant’s Needs and Goals
- Gathering Information From Families and Support Workers
- Identifying Possible Triggers and Patterns
- Observing Behaviour in Context
- Reviewing Existing Support Strategies
What Information Should You Prepare Before an Assessment?
Preparing for a positive behaviour support assessment can help participants and their families feel more comfortable with the process. You may find it useful to gather:
- Examples of situations that have caused concern.
- Information about daily routines and communication preferences.
- Observations from family members or support workers.
- Existing support plans and strategies.
- The participant’s goals, preferences and strengths.
- Relevant changes in circumstances or health, where appropriate.
You do not need to have every document ready before speaking with a practitioner. The information available can be discussed during the initial conversation.
What Happens After the Assessment?
After the assessment, the practitioner reviews the information gathered to determine suitable next steps based on the participant’s needs and circumstances. The findings may help guide recommendations, identify appropriate support strategies or inform the development or review of a Positive Behaviour Support Plan, where appropriate.
The participant, family members, carers and support workers may also be involved in putting agreed strategies into practice to support the participant in their everyday life.
For more information, read our existing guide to the Positive Behaviour Support Plan.
How Does an Assessment Support the Participant’s Everyday Life?
A positive behaviour support assessment can help identify strategies that support a participant’s daily needs, personal goals and overall wellbeing. By understanding the factors that may influence behaviour, practitioners can recommend approaches that promote more positive everyday experiences.
The assessment may help with:
- Improving communication and understanding.
- Supporting emotional regulation.
- Making daily routines more predictable.
- Helping support teams respond consistently.
- Encouraging participation and independence.
- Promoting dignity, safety and quality of life.
The outcomes depend on the participant’s individual circumstances, and an assessment cannot guarantee that behaviours of concern will stop.
Positive Behaviour Support in South Hedland and the Pilbara
Participants in South Hedland and across the Pilbara may benefit from personalised Positive Behaviour Support that considers their individual needs, goals and daily experiences.
STARR Care provides Positive Behaviour Support services to help participants and their support networks explore suitable strategies that promote wellbeing, communication, safety and everyday participation.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of a positive behaviour support assessment?
The purpose of a positive behaviour support assessment is to understand behaviours of concern in the context of a person’s needs, communication, environment and daily experiences. The findings can help a practitioner identify appropriate strategies to support the person’s wellbeing, safety and individual goals.
2. Who conducts a positive behaviour support assessment?
A positive behaviour support assessment is conducted by an appropriately qualified practitioner working within their professional scope and applicable NDIS requirements. The practitioner may gather information from the participant, family members, carers and support workers where appropriate.
3. How long does a positive behaviour support assessment take?
The time required depends on the participant’s circumstances, the complexity of their needs and the information required. Some assessments may involve several discussions or observations rather than a single appointment. The practitioner can explain the expected process for the individual’s situation.
4. What happens after a positive behaviour support assessment?
After the assessment, the practitioner considers the information gathered and identifies appropriate next steps. These may include recommendations, strategies for the support team or developing or reviewing a Behaviour Support Plan where required and appropriate.
5. Does every NDIS participant need a positive behaviour support assessment?
No. Whether an assessment is appropriate depends on the participant’s circumstances, support needs and goals. A practitioner can help determine whether an assessment may be useful and explain the available options.
Looking for Positive Behaviour Support in South Hedland?
Every participant has individual needs, experiences and goals. Positive Behaviour Support can help build a better understanding of behaviours of concern and identify strategies that support communication, wellbeing and everyday participation.
STARR Care provides Positive Behaviour Support in South Hedland and across the Pilbara region. Contact our team to discuss your circumstances and explore suitable support options.
Call us: (+61) 487-468-829
Email us at: info@starrcare.com.au
Visit us: Unit 3, Brand Street, South Hedland WA 6722
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