PBS is a multicomponent framework for developing an understanding of behaviour that challenges rather than a single therapeutic approach, treatment or philosophy. It is based on the assessment of the broad social and physical context in which the behaviour occurs, and used to construct socially valid interventions which enhance quality of life outcomes for both the person themselves and their carers. The framework can helpfully be depicted as twelve components grouped into three major categories: rights and values (a focus on rights and good lives), theory and evidence base (ways to understand behaviour, needs and experience), and process and strategy (a systematic approach to high quality support). It is important to stress that these components do not represent a ‘menu’ of options. Rather, the effective implementation of PBS necessitates the combined use of all of these.

The aim of the PBS group is to further the evidence-base for PBS through conducting high quality research and to support the dissemination and impact of PBS research to bring about improved delivery of support for individuals, families and services. We are currently supporting several projects within the group and are keen to develop new work areas over time:

• The Behaviour Support Plan Content Appraisal Tool (BSP-CAT)
• Staff Resilience And Well-Being (STRAW)
• PBS Academy and Care Quality Commission (CQC)
• PBS in the UK: A state of the nation report
• PBS survey
• Access to early years support