Ethical Risk Management and Positive Risk-Taking in PBS
Risk is an unavoidable element of Positive Behaviour Support. Within the Human Rights, Legal Context & Ethical Decision-Making framework, and alongside the core principles and values of PBS, ethical PBS practice requires a move away from risk avoidance towards proportionate, rights-based risk management.
This article explores how positive risk-taking operates in PBS, how decisions are justified, and how providers evidence defensible practice.
Understanding positive risk-taking in PBS
Positive risk-taking recognises that risk is inherent in living an ordinary life. PBS should enable people to take meaningful risks in pursuit of autonomy, relationships and participation.
Ethical PBS balances potential harm against the harm of restriction and exclusion.
Operational example: enabling independence despite risk
A person with a history of property damage wished to live more independently. Previous services had limited opportunities due to risk concerns.
PBS planning reframed risk through functional assessment, skill-building and environmental adaptations. Support focused on prevention rather than reaction.
Day-to-day delivery included structured routines, staff coaching and clear escalation pathways. Effectiveness was evidenced through reduced incidents and increased independence.
Safeguarding and ethical risk thresholds
Positive risk-taking does not override safeguarding duties. Ethical PBS requires clear thresholds for intervention, escalation and review.
Safeguarding processes should complement PBS, not replace it.
Operational example: safeguarding-led PBS adjustment
Following repeated safeguarding alerts, a provider reviewed PBS plans across a service. Risk thresholds were unclear and inconsistent.
Revised PBS guidance clarified acceptable risk, escalation criteria and review points. Staff received targeted training.
Effectiveness was demonstrated through reduced safeguarding alerts and improved staff confidence.
Commissioner expectation: defensible risk decisions
Commissioner expectation: Commissioners expect providers to demonstrate that PBS incorporates positive risk-taking supported by clear governance. Decisions must be documented, reviewed and linked to outcomes.
Regulator expectation: balancing freedom and safety
Regulator expectation (CQC): Inspectors assess how services balance safety with autonomy. Overly restrictive practices without justification are viewed negatively.
Operational example: governance review of high-risk PBS cases
A provider established quarterly PBS risk reviews for complex cases. This ensured multidisciplinary oversight and consistent application of ethical principles.
Effectiveness was evidenced through stronger inspection outcomes and reduced reactive interventions.
Embedding ethical risk management into PBS delivery
Ethical risk management in PBS requires leadership, training and reflective practice. When embedded well, it supports lawful, person-centred outcomes.