What is a Behaviour Support Assessment?
We take a deep dive into understanding what a Behaviour Support Assessment is, when and where it is relevant to use, and how Insight PBS practitioners utilise it during our service delivery.
The Behaviour Support Assessment (BSA) is a vital tool for individuals accessing Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) services, especially when there is limited or no Improved Relationships funding available. While it differs from a Behaviour Support Plan (BSP), the BSA provides foundational insights and recommendations, serving as a stepping stone for ongoing positive behaviour support.
When is a BSA Used?
The BSA is typically completed when resources for a BSP are unavailable and is often accompanied by a funding request letter. This is particularly important when restrictive practices are identified.
Key Components of a BSA
The BSA is a detailed document designed to address a participant’s needs while guiding future support strategies. Here’s a breakdown of its essential sections:
Participant and Practitioner Details
Includes key information like the participant’s name, NDIS number, and the practitioner’s contact details for transparency.
Referral Information
Documents the referral source, funding type, and the start date of PBS services.
Participant Goals
Lists NDIS goals and other important objectives identified by the participant and their support team.
Sources of Information
Summarises assessments (e.g., AQoL, WHODAS) and external reports reviewed during the process.
Assessment Findings
Details specific assessments conducted, such as risk and sensory evaluations, to understand behaviours of concern.
Participant Overview
Provides a person-centred perspective, outlining the participant’s strengths, preferences, health, and communication needs.
Behaviours of Concern and Risk of Harm
Analyses behaviours that pose risks, including triggers, frequency, and environmental factors.
Restrictive Practices
Highlights current restrictive practices, assesses their appropriateness, and suggests alternatives if necessary.
Assessment Results
Summarises key findings from all assessments and highlights areas for improvement.
Complexity Matrix and Recommendations
Evaluates the complexity of support needs and recommends an appropriate level of support, including required hours for various PBS activities.
Funding Impact and Risks Without Support
Discusses the benefits of funding approval and outlines risks associated with a lack of support, such as worsening behaviours or reduced quality of life.
Why is a BSA Important?
The BSA lays the foundation for positive behaviour support by providing a thorough assessment of the participant’s needs and offering clear recommendations. It empowers care teams with actionable insights, helping them deliver more effective, person-centred support.
At Insight PBS, we’re committed to ensuring that every participant has access to high-quality assessments and supports that improve their quality of life. The Behaviour Support Assessment is an essential part of this journey, guiding participants, carers, and support teams toward meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
What is the difference between a Behaviour Support Assessment and a Behaviour Support Plan?
A BSA is a foundational assessment that identifies behaviours of concern and makes recommendations for future support. A BSP is a comprehensive plan that includes detailed strategies and interventions to address those behaviours.
Do BSAs include strategies for managing behaviours of concern?
No, a BSA does not include specific strategies. It provides recommendations for ongoing support and is often used to request funding for a full Behaviour Support Plan.
How long does it take to complete a Behaviour Support Assessment?
The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of the participant’s needs, but a BSA is generally completed within a few weeks after all necessary information has been gathered.
Is a BSA required to access Positive Behaviour Support services?
A BSA is not always required but is often completed when funding for a Behaviour Support Plan is unavailable. It helps guide future support and funding requests.
What assessments are included in a BSA?
Common assessments may include tools like AQoL, WHODAS, or Risk Assessments, along with reviews of medical and external reports. This differs between participants, as the practitioner will only conduct relevant assessments.
What happens after the BSA is completed?
The report is shared with the participant and their team, who can use it to make informed decisions about future supports. It may also be used to secure funding for a BSP.
Who approves the BSA?
If restrictive practices are included, a senior Behaviour Support Practitioner or a supervisor must review and approve the assessment to ensure compliance with NDIS guidelines.
If you’d like to learn more about the Behaviour Support Assessment or explore Insight PBS services, contact our team today!
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