DC66-Positive Behaviour Support and Managing Aggression Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Positive Behaviour Support and Managing Aggression Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline {{org_field_name}}’s approach to promoting positive behaviour while effectively managing aggression in a way that ensures the dignity, safety, and well-being of all service users, staff, and stakeholders. This policy is designed to uphold our commitment to delivering person-centred care through Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) strategies while implementing safe and evidence-based methods for managing challenging behaviour and aggression.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and stakeholders who interact with service users in our care. It covers:

Preventative strategies for promoting positive behaviour.
Identifying and responding to challenging behaviour and aggression.
Safe de-escalation techniques.
Crisis intervention and restrictive practices (where absolutely necessary).
Reporting, reviewing, and learning from incidents.
Staff training and development.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is in compliance with the following key regulations and guidance:

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 – Ensures that decisions made on behalf of individuals who lack capacity are in their best interests.
The Care Act 2014 – Outlines the duty of care required to safeguard individuals receiving support.
The Equality Act 2010 – Ensures non-discriminatory practices in the management of behaviour and aggression.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Protects employees and service users from harm.
The Human Rights Act 1998 – Upholds the rights of individuals, including protection from inhumane or degrading treatment.
The Restraint Reduction Network Standards – Guides ethical approaches to restraint reduction and behaviour management.

4. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Approach

{{org_field_name}} is committed to using a Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) model that focuses on understanding the root causes of challenging behaviour. This approach involves:

Assessing behaviour: Conducting thorough Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA) to identify triggers and underlying causes.
Person-centred planning: Developing individualised behaviour support plans that promote positive alternatives to challenging behaviour.
Proactive strategies: Encouraging communication, choice-making, and structured routines to reduce distress and frustration.
Reinforcement of positive behaviour: Using praise, encouragement, and incentives to reinforce appropriate behaviour.
Multi-disciplinary collaboration: Involving psychologists, therapists, social workers, and family members in behaviour support planning.

5. Identifying and Responding to Challenging Behaviour

Challenging behaviour may include verbal aggression, physical aggression, self-injurious behaviour, property destruction, or non-compliance. Staff are trained to:

Recognise early warning signs of distress and agitation.
Use de-escalation techniques such as active listening, reassurance, and offering choices.
Avoid confrontational approaches that may escalate aggression.
Implement tailored behaviour intervention plans in line with the individual’s needs.

6. Safe De-escalation Techniques

Our approach to managing aggression is grounded in the use of non-violent crisis intervention techniques. Staff are trained in:

Verbal de-escalation: Using a calm tone, clear communication, and reassurance to defuse tense situations.
Environmental adjustments: Reducing noise, offering a quiet space, or changing the environment to lessen stress.
Diversion techniques: Redirecting focus to preferred activities or engaging individuals in calming activities.
Use of active listening: Demonstrating empathy and understanding to build trust and prevent escalation.

7. Crisis Intervention and Restrictive Practices

Where an individual’s behaviour presents an imminent risk to themselves or others, restrictive interventions may be considered only as a last resort and in the least restrictive manner possible. These interventions include:

Physical interventions: Used only when there is an immediate risk of harm, following approved guidelines and risk assessments.
Time-limited restrictions: Providing a safe space for individuals to regain composure where necessary.
Chemical restraint: Used only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and in line with legal guidelines.
Mechanical restraint: Strongly discouraged and only used under exceptional circumstances.

All restrictive practices must be:

Used in accordance with individual care plans and risk assessments.
Implemented in line with the Restraint Reduction Network Standards.
Monitored, reviewed, and reported to regulatory bodies where necessary.

8. Incident Reporting, Review, and Learning

All incidents of challenging behaviour and aggression must be documented, reviewed, and used to improve practice. {{org_field_name}} follows a structured approach to incident reporting:

Immediate documentation: Staff involved in an incident must complete an incident report detailing the nature, response, and outcome.
Debriefing sessions: Both staff and service users are provided with support and reflection opportunities post-incident.
Root cause analysis: Incidents are reviewed to determine contributing factors and prevent recurrence.
Continuous improvement: Findings from incident reviews are used to refine behaviour support plans and staff training.

9. Staff Training and Development

All staff members receive mandatory training in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and crisis intervention. Training includes:

Understanding behaviour as a form of communication.
Implementing de-escalation techniques effectively.
Crisis management and response protocols.
Ethical considerations in restrictive practices.
Legal and regulatory compliance in behaviour management.
Emotional resilience and self-care for staff dealing with aggression.

Refresher training is conducted annually, and additional training is provided based on emerging needs and incident reviews.

10. Supporting Service Users and Staff

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring the well-being of both service users and staff. This includes:

Developing individual support plans that prioritise dignity and personal growth.
Providing staff with emotional support and supervision to prevent burnout.
Encouraging a culture of open communication, allowing staff to share challenges and seek guidance.
Offering access to mental health resources for service users displaying persistent aggression.

11. Conclusion

By implementing this comprehensive Positive Behaviour Support and Managing Aggression Policy, {{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Through proactive strategies, person-centred planning, and continuous learning, we aim to enhance the quality of life for service users while equipping staff with the necessary skills to manage challenging behaviour effectively. Our approach prioritises dignity, respect, and ethical care in all situations.

12. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with best practices, legal requirements, and organisational goals. Staff, service users, and external professionals will be consulted in the review process to continuously improve the effectiveness of our Positive Behaviour Support approach.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.