Behaviour support services
The department funds behaviour support services (BSS) for children, adolescents and adults with a disability. BSS deliver systematic, environmental, educational and other therapeutic strategies to prevent the occurrence of behaviours of concern.
Behaviours of concern are behaviours that are a barrier to a person participating in and contributing to their community and pose a risk to the health and safety of a person and the community. This can include aggressive, self injurious, anti social or dangerous behaviours.
BSS are delivered by practitioners via DHS regions, community service organisations (CSOs) or private practitioners. Within the department BSS practitioners includes a range of staff with tertiary qualifications in relevant disciplines such as, psychology, nursing, social work, speech pathology, and staff who have relevant behavioural training and experience.
Each DHS region has a BSS team (sometimes know as Specialist Services Teams or Behaviour Intervention Services Teams). BSS are committed to the use of non-aversive techniques that maximise quality of life and reduce behaviours of concern.
Who can get assistance
Assistance may be available to:
- People that meet the criteria as under the Disability Act 2006 - this Act is available from the Victorian Legislation and Parliamentary Documents website
- Family members of people with disabilities
- Carers of people with disabilities
- Support providers
How to get assistance
Contact your regional Disability Intake and Response Serves who will provide you with further information on eligibility criteria and referral pathways.
For Direct connection to your regional Disability Intake and Response Serves call 1800 783 783 or TTY 1800 008 149.
Positive Practice Framework
The Positive Practice Framework (PPF) is an on-line resource for Behaviour Support Services (BSS) practitioners and other interested professionals. It presents a practice model that brings together current research, knowledge and practice strategies, and reflects the legislative requirements of the Disability Act 2006.
See related resources
Contact Information
Disability Services
Email: disability.services@dhs.vic.gov.au
