Implementing Restrictive Practices with Compassionate Support

At Life Care Housing Pty Ltd, we understand that every individual has unique needs and experiences. When it comes to supporting participants with complex behaviours, we approach the use of restrictive practices with the utmost care, empathy, and adherence to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) guidelines.

Restrictive practices are interventions used to prevent harm to individuals or others when less restrictive options have been exhausted. The NDIS defines restrictive practices as actions that limit a person’s rights or freedom of movement. These practices are regulated to ensure they are used only when necessary and in the least restrictive manner.

There are five types of regulated restrictive practices:

• Seclusion: Confining a person alone in a room or space.
• Chemical Restraint: Using medication to influence a person’s behaviour.
• Mechanical Restraint: Using devices to restrict movement.
• Physical Restraint: Using physical force to prevent movement.
• Environmental Restraint: Restricting access to certain areas or items.

These practices are subject to strict regulation to protect the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. They should only be used when less restrictive alternatives have been exhausted and when there is a clear, justifiable need to prevent harm.

At Life Care Housing Pty Ltd, we adhere to the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018, which mandate that restrictive practices must:

• Be clearly outlined in a person’s behavior support plan.
• Be implemented by registered providers who have been trained and authorised to do so.
• Be regularly reviewed to ensure they remain necessary and effective.
• Be reported to the NDIS Commission as required.

We ensure that all restrictive practices are used as a last resort and are always in the best interest of the individuals we support. Our staff receive comprehensive training in positive behavior support, focusing on proactive strategies to minimise the need for restrictive practices.

We believe in the importance of involving individuals and their families in decisions regarding their support plans. Before any restrictive practice is implemented, we engage in open and transparent discussions, ensuring that all parties understand the reasons for its use and the expected outcomes. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures that the rights and preferences of individuals are respected.

We strictly follow the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018, which set out the requirements for the use of restrictive practices. This includes obtaining necessary authorisations, maintaining accurate records, and reporting the use of such practices to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

Our goal is to ensure that any restrictive practice used is:

• A last resort after all other options have been considered.
• Implemented in a way that respects the individual’s rights and dignity.
• Continuously monitored and reviewed to ensure its effectiveness and necessity.