Implementing PBS within a Forensic Mental Health Setting
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Implementing Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) within a Forensic Mental Health Setting, Staff & Service User Experiences.
IRAS ID
170390
Contact name
Graeme Karger
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff & Vale University Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research project aims to explore the experiences of both staff and service users regarding the implementation of a Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) initiative within a medium secure mental health unit. PBS is a framework for developing understanding of an individual’s challenging behaviour and for using this understanding to develop effective support.
The development of a ‘positive and proactive’ workforce has been espoused at governmental level, where PBS is continually cited (Skills for Care & Skills for Health (2014), NHS Protect (2013), Department of Health (2014) as the key framework in which future services are to be developed, organised and delivered.
PBS has originated and been developed almost exclusively within the field of learning disabilities. The intention, as cited in the above guidance, is for PBS to become widespread throughout all health and social care settings. At present there is little evidence regarding its efficacy within secure mental health settings despite suggestion that its utility is clearly much wider than the current contexts in which it is employed (Allen et al 2005, DOH 2014). This research aims to address this gap in the existing literature.
This research will use semi-structured interviews to explore both staff and service users' experience of PBS. Up to 5 service users who are currently admitted, and 5 staff members working at the unit will be recruited. Each participant will take part in an interview with the researcher lasting approximately 60 minutes.
A grounded theory methodology (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) will be employed to generate a theory which can be used to better understand the experience of both staff and service users. This will have implications for informing direct clinical practice, staff training, service and policy development regarding Positive Behavioural Support in secure mental health services for adults with mental health problems and challenging behaviour.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SW/0211
Date of REC Opinion
24 Aug 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion