Therapy at Scope

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) can be used with a person who has behaviours of concern.

A behaviour of concern is any behaviour that:

  • Impacts a person’s ability to participate in their community
  • Compromises a person’s rights, dignity or quality of life
  • Poses a risk to the health and safety of themselves, and/or others

Behaviours of concern may also be called challenging behaviours.

PBS is a person-centred approach which aims to understand what a person’s behaviours tell us. All behaviours have a meaning. When a person’s needs are met, we reduce reliance on restrictive practices.

The approach supports people with disabilities and their networks to increase participation within the community and ultimately improve a person’s quality of life.

Our service

Scope is the largest disability service provider in Australia. Our experienced team can support you and the person with behaviours of concern by:

  • Getting to know the person and the important people in their life
  • Learning about the life the person would like to live
  • Understanding what the person is communicating through their behaviour
  • Understanding internal and external factors influencing the person’s behaviour
  • Finding new ways to have a person’s needs met, decreasing their need to engage in the behaviour
  • Promoting independence, improved communication, coping skills and meaningful participation
  • Finding ways to build relationships with family, friends and staff and creating opportunities to actively increase meaningful interactions

Our approach is a human rights person-centred approach that is evidence based. Contact us to learn more.

Who we work with

We work with people of school-age and above, including people with complex needs. We also work with organisations including schools, community services, day programs, respite providers, accommodation services and in home environments. We provide supports in the location that suits best, whether that is the home, school, in the community or at other services or locations.

Or contact our team directly on 1300 472 673 to discuss your needs.

FAQs

What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred approach that aims to understand and reduce behaviours of concern by identifying the underlying reasons behind them. Rather than focusing on consequences, PBS focuses on improving quality of life, communication, independence, and participation in everyday activities. Scope delivers PBS using a human rights and evidence-based approach.

What are behaviours of concern?

Behaviours of concern are behaviours that may affect a person's safety, wellbeing, relationships, or ability to participate in daily life. These can include aggression, self-injury, property damage, or behaviours linked to distress, communication difficulties, or unmet needs. PBS aims to understand why these behaviours occur and develop positive, supportive strategies — rather than relying on restrictive practices.

Who may benefit from Positive Behaviour Support?

PBS may benefit children, teenagers, and adults with disability, autism, intellectual disability, developmental delay, psychosocial disability, or complex support needs. It may also support families, carers, schools, and support workers by providing practical strategies. Individual suitability will depend on each person's circumstances and the specific service available. Call Scope on 1300 472 673 to find out more.

Can NDIS funding be used for Positive Behaviour Support?

PBS may be fundable through an NDIS plan when considered reasonable and necessary, generally under the Improved Relationships or Improved Daily Living support categories. Whether PBS is included in a plan is determined by the NDIA based on individual circumstances. We recommend discussing your situation with your local area coordinator.

What does a Positive Behaviour Support assessment involve?

A PBS practitioner will spend time getting to know the individual, their goals, daily routines, environment, and support network. They may observe behaviours, identify contributing factors, and work with families, carers, and support workers to develop a personalised Behaviour Support Plan. The focus is on building positive skills and improving quality of life. Call Scope on 1300 472 673 to arrange an assessment or find out more.

In what settings does Scope provide Positive Behaviour Support?

Scope's PBS services may be delivered across a range of settings including at home, school, accommodation settings, respite services, and in the community, subject to individual circumstances and service availability. Scope works with families, educators, and support workers to provide consistent support.

How do I find out more about Scope's Positive Behaviour Support services?

To find out more, call Scope on 1300 472 673 or visit scopeaust.org.au. Our team can provide information about PBS services, what is involved, and whether it may be suitable for your circumstances.