The Real Meaning of Positive Behaviour Support: It’s Not About ‘Managing Behaviour’

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is too often misunderstood. It’s not about controlling people. It’s about understanding them — and creating environments where distress is reduced and quality of life improves.

Commissioners are looking for services that understand the values behind PBS — not just the functional analysis process or behaviour plans.

In tender responses, this is your chance to show you get it. Here’s how to reflect the real spirit of PBS in your bids:

• Start with trauma and communication — What behaviour are you seeing? But more importantly: what unmet need might it express?
• Frame PBS as rights-based — Describe how you use PBS to protect autonomy and dignity, reduce restrictive practice, and promote inclusion.
• Talk about quality of life — Explain how PBS links to meaningful routines, preferred activities, and valued relationships. This is what prevents escalation.
• Involve the person — PBS isn’t something done to someone. Describe how people are involved in understanding what works for them, what support helps, and what they don’t want.

It’s time we reclaimed PBS from the idea that it’s a clinical tool. It’s a values-led, person-centred approach that gives people more control — not less.

If your tender responses reflect this, they will stand out. They’ll show that you’re not just delivering care, but building trust, respect, and opportunity.