Positive Futures is a significant investment by the Queensland Government in response to a report by the Honourable WJ Carter QC in 2006 called Challenging Behaviour and Disability: A Targeted Response.
Mr Carter's report makes 24 recommendations that form the basis of one of the most significant reforms ever undertaken in Queensland's disability sector.
Positive Futures is already assisting adults to enjoy a better quality of life and more opportunities to participate in activities of their choice.
This is being achieved by the efforts of the disability sector, with support from the Queensland Government, the use of a positive behaviour support approach and reducing or eliminating the use of restrictive practices.
Underpinned by human rights principles, best practice in contemporary service delivery and a continuum of care that begins with service from an early age, Positive Futures builds on the foundation already laid through the introduction of the Disability Services Act 2006 and the Queensland Disability Service Standards.
With commitment from the sector, Positive Futures will continue to support Queenslander adults with a disability to live the life they deserve.
Table of contents:
Response to recommendations
Read about the Queensland Government's response to the 24 recommendations in Mr Carter's report.
Who are the people behind Positive Futures?
The Specialist Response Service
The Specialist Response Service (SRS) works with local disability service organisations across Queensland to implement a positive behaviour support approach for improving the participation of adults with a cognitive or intellectual disability in everyday life.
Positive Futures environments
As part of Positive Futures, the Queensland Government has a capital works program to build a range of Positive Futures environments. These specialist environments aim to meet the needs of adults who require a more intensive response. They are designed to provide opportunities for adults to learn new skills and positive behaviours.
Centre of Excellence for Behaviour Support
The Centre of Excellence for Behaviour Support (the Centre), is leading research in disability support and provides specialist knowledge and training in this important area. The Centre also offers service provider training in functional assessment and positive behaviour interventions for staff supporting adults with complex needs.
Positive Futures contacts
Disability service providers
Disability service providers needing assistance or advice on matters including developing positive behaviour support plans or restrictive practices legislation should contact the relevant regional SRS team.
Family members
Families of supported adults should first talk to the relevant service provider. They are able assist with understanding the law relating to the use of restrictive practices and how it might apply to the adult.
Work for us
New opportunities regularily become available to work with the Specialist Response Service, Centre of Excellence of Behaviour Support and the Forensic Disability Service.
For further information about the Specialist Response Service, read the prospectus prospectus and blueprint blueprint .
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License