A Progressive Approach to Positive Behaviour
Welcome to the interactive guide to RFM Supported Living’s Positive Behaviour Policy. This application is designed to bring our philosophy to life, providing a clear, accessible, and practical resource for all staff. Our approach is founded on the principle that behaviour is communication, and our goal is to foster an environment where young people feel secure, understood, and empowered on their journey to a meaningful life.
Our Three Core Models
Our practice is built on the integration of three evidence-based therapeutic models. This section allows you to explore the key principles of each. The chart represents how these models form a complete, interwoven foundation for everything we do, with the young person’s goals and recovery at the very center.
Our Approach in Practice
This section details how we translate our core models into daily practice. Explore our proactive strategies for fostering a positive environment and our supportive, learning-focused approach to responding to challenging behaviours.
Proactive Strategies (Goal-Oriented Focus)
Individualised Support Plans
Collaboratively developed plans identifying strengths, needs, triggers, coping strategies, and personal goals for each young person’s recovery journey.
Clear Expectations & Routines
Establishing consistent and predictable routines to provide a sense of security and safety, communicated in an accessible manner.
Positive Reinforcement
Consistently acknowledging and celebrating positive behaviours, efforts, and achievements to build self-esteem and reinforce desired actions.
Skill Building
Actively teaching and modelling social-emotional skills, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication techniques.
Enrichment & Engagement
Providing a wide range of meaningful and developmentally appropriate activities that cater to individual interests and promote success, contributing to their sense of purpose and well-being.
Environmental Design
Creating a calm, organised, and stimulating physical environment that promotes a sense of safety, belonging, and supports engagement in positive activities.
Responding to Challenging Behaviour: A Learning-Focused Process
Immediate Response & De-escalation
▼
- Safety First: Ensure the immediate safety of the young person, other young people, and staff.
- De-escalation Techniques: Use calm, non-confrontational language, offer choices, and provide space and time to regulate.
- Avoid Power Struggles: Focus on understanding the underlying need, trigger, or communication behind the behaviour.
- Minimise Restrictive Practices: Physical interventions are a last resort to prevent significant harm and are always reviewed.
Post-Incident Reflection & Repair
▼
Once calm, a supportive conversation takes place. This is not about blame, but about understanding, learning, and repairing harm. Use these questions to guide the dialogue:
“What happened from your perspective?”
“What were you feeling/thinking at the time?”
“Who was affected by what happened, and how?”
“What do you need to do to make things better or right?”
“What could you do differently next time to help you achieve your goals?”
Behaviour Support Planning
▼
For persistent challenges, a detailed individualised behaviour support plan is developed. This plan is informed by a functional assessment and is explicitly linked to the young person’s personal recovery goals and aspirations. It is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains relevant and supportive.
Roles, Responsibilities & Training
Implementing this policy is a shared responsibility. Everyone has a part to play in creating a therapeutic community. We are committed to providing continuous professional development to ensure all staff are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Staff Members
Understand and consistently implement the policy, act as positive role models, and engage in ongoing training and reflective practice.
Young People
Actively participate in their support plans, engage in reflective conversations, and take responsibility for their actions and goals.
Management & Leadership
Provide training, supervision, and support, ensure resources are available, and regularly review and update the policy.
Our Commitment to Training
Core training includes in-depth modules on Attachment Theory, the Recovery Model, Trauma-Informed Care, de-escalation techniques, goal setting, and reflective practice.