You must be a registered provider to implement restrictive practices.
Support services funded through the NDIS require a registered provider to implement restrictive practices if required. Unregistered providers are not able to provide this type of support with NDIS funding.
Restrictive Practice:
Something that influences how a person behaves.
An approved Positive Behaviour Plan is needed.
The use an Regulated Restrictive Practices (interim or ongoing) requires a Behaviour Support Plan to be developed by a Positive Behaviour Support practitioner. The provider must be registered with the NDIS as a specialist support service provider (Module 2A). Regulated Restrictive Practices are further described below. (seclusion, environmental, physical, mechanical and chemical). Authorisation is gained, and measures are in place to report to the commission.
Unregistered providers not authorised to use restrictive practices.
Private support workers may fall into this category. They may have used, or require the use of a regulated restrictive practice. (The participant must have a Behaviour Support Plan.) Private support workers must comply with the Commission and become registered through a provider or work as a contractor through a provider registered for (Module 2A). The unauthorised use of a restrictive practice in relation to an NDIS participant MUST be reported to the Commission.
Reduce or eliminate restrictive practice over time.
The NDIS expects service providers to reduce and eliminate regulated restrictive practice use, if it is safe to do so. Some restrictions present a high risk of harm to participants such as specific forms of physical restraint and punitive approaches. Positive Behaviour Support can assist in educating supports in this area. This ensures participants’ human rights are upheld which is aimed at increasing quality of life and ensuring supports are provided in a safe and person-centered way. The Positive Behaviour Support practitioner and stakeholders are required to collaborate during this process.
Physical Restraint: Involves the use or action of physical force to prevent, restrict or subdue movement of a person’s body, or part of their body, for the primary purpose of influencing their behaviour.
Mechanical Restraint: The use of a device to prevent, restrict, or subdue a person’s movement for the primary purpose of influencing a person’s behaviour but does not include the use of devices for therapeutic or non-behavioural purposes.
Chemical: The use of medication or chemical substances for the primary purpose of influencing a person’s behaviour. It does not include the use of medication prescribed by a medical practitioner for the treatment of, or to enable treatment of, a diagnosed mental disorder, a physical illness or a physical condition.
Environmental: Involves restricting a person’s free access to all parts of their environment, including items or activities.
Seclusion: The sole confinement of a person with a disability in a room or a physical space at any hour of the day or night where the voluntary exit is prevented or not facilitated or it is implied that voluntary exit is not permitted.
Children & Young People: There are different specific requirements and considerations for regulated restrictive practices with NDIS participants aged under 18 years.
It is important to follow NDIS guidelines.
To Arrange High Risk Restrictive Practices
Creative problem solving.
Develop an NDIS-approved plan.
Arrange consent and decision making.
Support your team.
Monitoring and review.
Effective collaboration.
Ensure you are within the NDIS guidelines.
Reduce the need for restrictive practices over time.
What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a way to help people with disabilities live happier and more independent lives by understanding their needs and creating positive changes.
Understanding Challenging Behaviors
Sometimes, people with disabilities might have behaviours that are hard to manage. These behaviours often happen because they can’t express their needs or feelings in other ways.
What Are Restrictive Practices?
Restrictive practices are actions or strategies used to stop or limit someone’s behaviour for safety reasons. These could include physically holding someone, locking doors, or taking away certain items.
Why Are Restrictive Practices Used?
These practices should only be used when absolutely necessary to keep the person or others safe. They should always be the last option and only for a short time.
The Goal of Reducing Restrictive Practices
The main goal is to reduce and eventually cease using restrictive practices, therefore improve quality of life.
Involving Families and Supporters
Families and supporters are important in PBS. They help create a plan that understands the person’s needs so restrictive practices aren’t needed.
Creating a Positive Behaviour Support Plan
A Positive Behaviour Support plan is like a guide. It lists out the best ways to support the person, including what to do when they feel upset or overwhelmed.
Training for Support Workers
Support workers are trained to use positive and respectful strategies. They learn how to understand behaviours and respond in a caring way that avoids restrictive practices.
The Importance of Consent
Any use of restrictive practices should always have the person’s consent if possible, or the consent of their legal guardian.
Monitoring and Reviewing
It’s important to regularly check if the Positive Behaviour Support plan is working and if restrictive practices are being reduced. Adjustments are made to ensure the person’s well-being.
