The conference is a foundational opportunity to describe, develop and implement the evidence-based Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model. This model is a novel way of working with services and families who may be experiencing significant problems in managing distress wherein some family members may have been labelled as having “challenging behaviours” in disability services in Ireland. CPS has produced dramatic and impactful outcomes for people in this context both nationally and internationally. Importantly, it is acknowledged that many people have been made vulnerable through being managed in systems and traditional practices that are not well-matched to their needs. These individuals are perceived as representing a significant challenge to those responsible for their care, who often find themselves perpetually managing crises. This conference is a key opportunity to provide an important evidence-based way of changing that position for individuals, families and services.
This conference (attendance is free) is for people with lived experience (service users, families and clients of services), clinicians from any discipline, policymakers, educators, advocates, and any professionals supporting people who experience distress. The purpose of this conference is to describe the CPS model, how it differs from existing models of care – especially in its focus on proactively solving problems rather than modifying behaviour – review its outcomes with vulnerable and under-served children and adults in multiple contexts in Ireland, and consider its applications to other contexts and settings.
All Conference outputs (proceedings, scientific and process reports) will be made freely available (HRB open access, Lenus, OSF). Reports for traditional media and social media will be prepared including the social media of our partners and relevant professional organisations. The conference will show how CPS is human-rights based, neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, and provides an evidence-based alternative to restrictive and harmful practices such as restraint, seclusion, and exclusion.