Positive behaviour support Getting it right from the start

Positive behaviour support: Getting it right from the start - Facilitators reference manual 17
Freedom
• Freedom of movement, assembly, expression and association.
• Rights to liberty and security
Equality
• Equality before the law and protection from discrimination.
• Entitlement to participate in public life (including voting).
Dignity
• Prohibition on torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
• Protection of privacy and reputation.
• Humane treatment when deprived of liberty.
• Appropriate treatment of children in the criminal process.
While these rights are not the only ones being infringed discussion should also include when
was the last time the medications were checked? Are there communication systems in place
and being used by staff?
Scenario three
A mechanical restraint, Velcro straps on the body and left arm, is applied on Luke, a 17-year
old with cerebral palsy. It is not reportable because the restraints are for therapeutic reasons
to maintain postural stability. The restraint is applied during mealtimes and when he is using
an electronic voice output device (VOCA). For safety reasons, his wheelchair is ‘clamped
down’ while he is on his own, such as while waiting to be picked up. Luke spits, scratches
and attempts to throw punches at staff during these times when the restraint is applied. His
Dynavox (type of VOCA) is taken off him when he exhibits these behaviours, for safety reasons
and because it is an expensive device. The Dynavox is often kept in the cupboard.
Freedom
• Freedom of movement, assembly, expression and association.
• Freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief.
• Property rights.
Equality
• Entitlement to participate in public life (including voting).
While these rights are not the only ones being infringed discussion should also include the
concepts of social restraint. Why is his Dynavox really being removed? What safety reasons
are being considered? How long is Luke kept waiting?