Environment and Routine in PBS: Creating the Conditions for People to Thrive
Share
In Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), the environment isn’t just the backdrop — it’s a key part of the intervention.
Many behaviours that challenge are triggered by stress, confusion, sensory overload, or unpredictability. That’s why PBS places so much emphasis on getting the environment and routine right. The goal isn’t just to reduce incidents — it’s to create the conditions where people feel calm, safe, and in control.
🏡 Why Environment Matters
- Lighting, noise, and layout can impact sensory processing and anxiety levels.
- Personal space and privacy affect dignity and emotional wellbeing.
- Consistency and predictability reduce uncertainty and help people feel secure.
Think about how stressful a chaotic, noisy, or unfamiliar space can be — now imagine experiencing that every day with limited ways to express it. PBS encourages us to take a step back and ask: “What in this environment could be contributing to the behaviour we’re seeing?”
📆 The Power of Routine
Predictable routines don’t mean rigid timetables. It’s about providing structure and helping people know what to expect. This might involve:
- Visual schedules or Now-and-Next boards
- Clear transitions between activities
- Regular check-ins to offer control and reassurance
When people feel safe in the rhythm of their day, their capacity to engage, connect, and enjoy life increases dramatically.
đź“ť What to Include in Tenders and Inspections
- Explain how you adapt environments to meet sensory and emotional needs.
- Describe how you co-design routines with the individual, rather than for them.
- Provide examples where environmental adjustments led to better outcomes.
Commissioners want to know that PBS isn’t just theoretical — it’s built into how your service operates day-to-day.
đź“š Related Downloads
- PBS Method Statement Collection
- Positive Behaviour Support Strategy
- Positive Behaviour Support Policy
Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing and strategy for social care providers
Visit impact-guru.co.uk to browse downloadable strategies, method statements, or get in touch about tender support.