PBS Staff Training Is Not a Checkbox: What Learning Disability Tenders Should Prove

Too many tenders simply state “all staff are trained in Positive Behaviour Support.” But that’s not what wins bids — especially in learning disability services.


📉 Don’t Just Say You Train — Show What It Means

If commissioners can’t tell the difference between your PBS training and someone else’s, you’ve lost your edge. Go further than ticking a box. Prove your staff:

  • Understand PBS principles — and why they matter
  • Apply those principles in real-life situations
  • Reflect and adapt their practice over time

🔁 Training Must Be Continuous and Practical

Highlight refresher sessions, mentoring, learning from incidents, and in-the-moment coaching. These are the details that show PBS isn’t just a course — it’s a culture.

Include supervision notes, examples of training in action, or how managers reinforce PBS during team meetings or reflective practice.


🧠 Show That Staff Learn and Grow

Commissioners want to know: do your staff learn from challenging moments? Can they spot early signs of distress? Do they understand what behaviour is communicating?

Evidence could include:

  • Staff feedback after training sessions
  • Changes in practice or reduced incidents post-training
  • Real-life examples where PBS prevented escalation

📝 In Tenders, Detail the Impact

It’s not about claiming staff are trained — it’s about showing what that training does. Make PBS come alive with evidence of outcomes, reflection, and improved support.


    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.

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