The Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) training is an evidence-based, person-centred approach designed to improve the quality of life for individuals who display behaviours that challenge — and for those who support them. Rooted in behavioural science and guided by principles of dignity, respect, and inclusion, PBS focuses on understanding the why behind behaviours and promoting positive, proactive support strategies.
Rather than reacting to challenging behaviour, PBS helps care professionals identify triggers, understand the function of behaviour and put effective, compassionate plans in place. It is widely used across residential care, schools and mental health and disability services, creating environments that promote safety, independence and wellbeing.
What Is Challenging Behaviour?
Challenging behaviour takes many forms — from violence, aggression and self-injury to withdrawal, repetitive actions, or verbal outbursts. It often occurs when an individual’s needs are not being met or when they don’t have the communication skills to express themselves effectively.
Common causes include:
• Adverse childhood experiences or trauma
• Sensory loss or brain injury
• Communication difficulties
• Environmental stressors
• Inconsistent responses from carers or staff
By recognising these underlying factors, PBS helps shift the focus from just “managing challenging behaviour” to understanding and supporting the person behind it.
How PBS Works
PBS begins with a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) — a process that looks at what triggers the behaviour, what maintains it, and what purpose it serves. This allows carers to design individualised support plans that teach alternative, positive ways of communicating and coping.
Key components of PBS include:
• Creating safe, structured, and supportive environments
• Teaching new skills and promoting communication
• Involving individuals in their own support planning
• Collaborating with families and professionals
• Implementing proactive, not punitive, strategies
When restrictive interventions (like restraint or seclusion) are unavoidable, PBS ensures they are used only as a last resort, for the shortest time necessary and always reviewed afterward.
Legislation and Best Practice
PBS practice aligns with key UK legislation, including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and Equality Act 2010, which collectively emphasise the rights, autonomy, and protection of individuals receiving care. These frameworks ensure that PBS is applied ethically, lawfully and consistently across care settings.
The PBS Competence Framework, developed in the UK, sets standards for skills and knowledge among professionals and carers. It promotes consistency in practice, encourages collaborative working and supports the professional development of staff delivering PBS interventions.
The Benefits of PBS Training
Training in Positive Behaviour Support benefits everyone involved — staff, service users and families. By embedding PBS principles, care settings become calmer, safer and more person-centred.
Professionals gain the confidence to:
• Understand behaviour through assessment and reflection
• Reduce restrictive practices
• Promote communication and choice
• Enhance quality of life for individuals they support
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) training is about more than behaviour management — it’s about empowerment. By focusing on strengths, inclusion and respect, PBS helps everyone affected live happier, more meaningful lives while creating positive care environments for all.
References
- Care Act factsheets Care Act 2014
- Equality Act 2010 Equality Act 2010
The positive behaviour support (PBS)approach enhances patient safety by focusing on understanding the causes of behaviour and creating supportive environment. By identifying triggers ,promoting positive coping skills and using defecation techniques, PBS reduces the risk of harm and help restore calm, dignity and trust I care settings. It ensures care is person centred,preventive and focused on improving overall well-being.