Person Centred Approaches with Autism
Person centred
planning is based upon a set of shared values that can be used to plan with the person and not for them. Person centred planning is an approach
designed to assist an individual to plan their life and support, in order to
develop their independence and support their self development and
determination.
Planning should build the
person's circle of support and involve all of the people who are important in
that person's life. Person centred planning is owned and controlled by the
person (and sometimes their closest family and friends).
There is a
significant difference between person centred planning and person centred approaches
that must be remembered;
- Person centred planning is about gathering information from the person to support them to plan their life, present and future.
- Person centred approaches is ensuring that as staff the support we deliver to an individual is done in the way in which that person wants and needs it to be carried out.
Not everyone will have a person centred plan as not everyone will choose this. It is essential that as support staff we encourage individuals to have a person centred plan but respect when they make the decision that they do not want one. If an individual chooses not to have a plan then as support staff it is essential that you document and evidence this.
It is also important to recognise that for some individuals with autism the concept of planning for now or the future can be a difficult concept to understand. On this basis it is essential that those involved in the person life are involved and information is gathered about what the person likes, dislikes, needs and what we think they might want (from something that may seem very small to you like how bright the light bulbs in the persons bedroom are, to very significant decisions about whether the person may want to move). Therefore feeling listened to, recognised as an individual and respected.
As a person centred plan is much individualised; there are no set tools and methods for developing this. It is about being creative and working with the person to ensure that the process and tools used are in a format that meets the person’s needs.
Person Centred Planning and Approaches
Several years ago a young man educated in our Post 16 service joined 3 other young people in sharing a house together. We provided support on a 24/7 basis. Initially he required intensive support to assist him in achieving basic daily living skills and establish a structured approach to his daily activities however he made significant development in all areas and was encouraged to progress his lifestyle choice to live independently in a shared ownership property. His success has been remarkable, achieving his ultimate goal much sooner than expected and with the backing and support of everyone involved. Support staff worked closely with his family and care manager to help him understand natural consequences and responsibilities, stay safe in and outside of the home and remain physically and mentally healthy.
