Month: October 2024

NEW RELEASE:  Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices Policy

As a provider in the disability sector, understanding and implementing effective behaviour support strategies is crucial. The newly developed Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices Policy outlines the essential role providers play in supporting individuals with disabilities, while prioritising the reduction and elimination of restrictive practices.

The Importance of Behaviour Support

Behaviour support is fundamental in promoting positive outcomes for individuals with disability. It involves creating tailored interventions that respect individual preferences, enhance well-being, and foster independence. This policy serves as a framework for providers, ensuring that behaviour support is not only effective but also aligns with best practices.

Commitment to Reducing Restrictive Practices

Restrictive practices can have significant implications for individuals, often compromising their autonomy and dignity. The Policy emphasises a clear commitment to reducing and ultimately eliminating these practices. Providers are encouraged to explore alternative strategies that prioritise positive behaviour support, ensuring that interventions are the least intrusive possible.

Key Principles for Providers:

1. Person-Centred Approach: Always tailor support strategies to the individual’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Engage with the individual, their families, and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive understanding of what works best.
2. Focus on Prevention: Implement proactive strategies that minimize the likelihood of challenging behaviours. This includes identifying triggers and creating supportive environments that promote positive interactions.
3. Ongoing Training and Development: Stay informed about the latest evidence-based practices in behaviour support. Continuous professional development is essential for effectively supporting individuals and understanding the implications of restrictive practices.

Understanding the Role of the Practice Quality Division

The Practice Quality division within the NDIS Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of behaviour support services. Providers should be aware of their responsibilities in relation to this division:

• Compliance with Standards: Ensure that your practices align with the standards set by the NDIS Commission. This includes adhering to the principles outlined in the Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices Policy.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough records of behaviour support plans and any use of restrictive practices. Transparency is key to accountability and ongoing improvement.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for receiving feedback from individuals and families about the support provided. This information is vital for continuous improvement and aligning practices with the needs of those you serve.

The Approach to Quality and Safety

To enhance the quality and safety of behaviour support, providers are encouraged to adopt the following strategies:

• Collaborative Practices: Work closely with families, caregivers, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure a holistic approach to behaviour support.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your behaviour support strategies. Be open to adapting approaches based on what is working and what is not.
• Empowerment: Support individuals in making choices about their own care and interventions. Empowerment fosters a sense of ownership and enhances overall satisfaction.

The Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices Policy represents a critical step toward improving the quality of support for individuals with disabilities. As providers, your role is essential in implementing these principles and practices, ensuring that individuals receive the highest standard of care while minimising restrictive interventions. For access the full policy document, please download the Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices Policy here: https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/rules-and-standards/behaviour-support-and-restrictive-practices/rules-behaviour-support-and#paragraph-id-9169 .

At the NGO Training Centre, we provide a comprehensive three-part course which covers essential aspects of behaviour management and support.

Part 1 delves into the history of managing ‘behaviours of concern’ in Australia and explains the five stages of behaviour escalation.

Part 2 focuses on the ABC of positive behaviour support, including strategies to reduce behaviours of concern and the application of restrictive practices.

Part 3 addresses the development and implementation of a Positive Behaviour Support Plan, the importance of collaboration in this process, and the role of the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission in overseeing Positive Behaviour Support and Restrictive Practices.

Together, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for people with disability.

Written
by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.

Amanda is
a professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the fields of
Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive expertise lies in navigating the
intricate landscape of the Disability Sector. She brings a unique perspective
to her work, being both a person with lived experience of disability and a
compassionate carer. She has a passion for advocacy, making her a staunch
champion for the rights and well-being of individuals facing similar
challenges

As of October 3, 2024, new NDIS laws have come into effect, following the passing of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No.1) Bill in August. These changes aim to bring the NDIS back to its core purpose and improve the experience for both participants and providers. If you’re an NDIS provider, here’s what you need to know about the changes and your new responsibilities.

Clearer Funding Rules

One of the most significant changes is the new definition of what qualifies as an NDIS-approved support. From now on, participants can only use their NDIS funds for items listed as approved supports. There’s also a list of what NDIS funding cannot be used for, and in some cases, participants can request a substitution from the replacement support list.

View the Lists

As a provider, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the supports you offer are compliant with these new lists. This means regularly checking the approved support list and keeping up to date with any changes that may affect your services.

Impact on Participants’ Plans

Another key change starting from October 3 is how participants’ plans will be structured. New and updated plans will clearly show total budget amounts, funding components, and the timeframes for which funding is allocated. As a provider, you’ll need to understand how these changes may impact the services you offer and how participants can manage their budgets.

If you work with participants who need help managing their NDIS funds, the NDIA now can change their plan management type to offer more support. Be prepared to assist participants through this process and guide them in accessing the help they need.

Staying Compliant with Updated Guidelines

To help implement these changes, the NDIS has updated its guidelines across several areas. These include applying for the NDIS, creating and adjusting plans, and understanding the principles behind “reasonable and necessary” supports. The Guide to Self-management has also been refreshed, so if you work with self-managed participants, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the new rules.

Read the Guidelines

Your Role in the Transition

The NDIS is committed to a smooth transition for both participants and providers, but the responsibility doesn’t lie solely with the NDIA. As a provider, you’ll play an essential role in ensuring participants understand the new rules and how they affect their services. It’s important to communicate these changes to participants and answer any questions they may have.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) conducted public consultations earlier this year to gather feedback on the draft lists of supports. Over 7,000 people participated, which helped shape the new rules. Staying informed and involved in future consultations can help you stay ahead of any further changes and provide the best possible service to participants.

Where to Find More Information

For more detailed information on the new rules, check out the summary of legislation changes and FAQs on the NDIS website. Resources like the easy-read versions and Auslan videos can help you communicate these changes to participants with different needs.

Find more information here

As the NDIS evolves, providers are crucial in delivering the best possible outcomes for participants. By staying informed and adaptable, you’ll be better equipped to navigate these changes and support those who rely on your services.

Keep an eye out on our In The News Page for all you NDIS Updates!

Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.

Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated
experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive
expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector.
She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived
experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for
advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of
individuals facing similar challenges.

📢 Attention providers! Starting 1 October 2024, there’s an important update regarding the pricing for Intensive and Complex Behaviour Supports. This change allows you to claim these supports at the same price limit as High-Intensity Supports, addressing previous concerns linked to the removal of “challenging behaviours” from the High-Intensity Support definition.

What You Need to Know

Eligible Supports

Providers offering the following supports can now access the higher price limit:
• Assistance with Daily Life Tasks in a Group or Shared Living Arrangement
• Daily Personal Activities
• Participation in Community, Social and Civic Activities
• Group and Centre Based Activities

Requirements for Claiming the Higher Price Limit

To take advantage of this new pricing structure, there are specific requirements you must meet:

1. Alignment with Participant Plans: Ensure that the behaviour support you provide is consistent with each participant’s plan.
2. Registration and Assessment: You must be registered and assessed for Module 2A by 30 June 2025.
3. Application for Registration: If you’re new or need to amend your registration, make sure to complete the Module 2A audit and submit your application by 30 June 2025.

Next Steps

For detailed information on these updates, please refer to the Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits available on the Pricing Arrangements webpage: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements

This is a significant opportunity for providers to enhance the support they offer while ensuring they can claim appropriately for the vital services they provide. Stay informed via our In The News page and ensure you’re prepared to implement these changes effectively!

Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.

Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated
experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive
expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector.
She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived
experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for
advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of
individuals facing similar challenges.