In light of a few emails we've received recently concerning adults with Down syndrome and challenging behaviour, we thought this guide might provide some useful tips. Obviously as it is produced in the UK and is aimed at all people with intellectual disability and not solely those with Ds, not all the information will be applicable - but there may be some useful pointers here for parents and carers.

The Challenging Behaviour Foundation (www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk ) has developed a new resource for advocates who find themselves supporting individuals perceived as challenging.

Children and adults with learning disabilities and behaviour described as challenging are often a marginalised and significantly disadvantaged group of individuals. Independent advocacy is a very useful tool to empower and protect them. However, the complexity of providing advocacy for these individuals should not be under estimated.

In the new guide key 'at a glance' bullet points identify 'what you may encounter' and 'what you should know' aimed at equipping advocates to effectively champion the rights and best interests of individuals with severe learning disabilities.

Through providing advocates with an understanding of why a person may behave in a certain way, and by creating an awareness of the impact behaviour can have on the support that someone receives, advocates will be better equipped to act on behalf of their advocacy partner.

The guide looks at issues such as the use of medication and physical intervention and offers suggested 'questions to ask' for each situation.

Another chapter looks at the  characteristics of good support for people perceived as challenging to services, with suggested questions for advocates to ask around personalisation, activites and opportunties, staff training and communication skills.

Contents include:

•  - Before you begin
• - Start with the person
• - Understanding challenging behaviour
• - Supporting behaviour change
• - What are the issues?
• - Services and support
• - A suggested approach
• - Checklist
• - Case Studies
• - References and further information

Although intended for advocates the guide book would also be a useful resource for family carers acting on behalf to sons and daughters described as having challenging behaviour.

Please click on the link below to read a sample chapter from the book.

If you would like to order a copy of the guide please contact the Challenging Behaviour Foundation.  Email:info@thecbf.org.uk

Telephone:   0044 1634 838739

The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
c/o The Old Courthouse
New Road Avenue
Chatham
Kent
ME4 6BE

The guide costs £16.

Download or view document: CBF_AGuideForAdvocatesChapter6.pdf