Challenging behaviour and learning disabilities: prevention and interventions for people with learning disabilities whose behaviour challenges: NG11

This guideline covers interventions and support for children, young people and adults with a learning disability and behaviour that challenges. It highlights the importance of understanding the cause of behaviour that challenges, and performing thorough assessments so that steps can be taken to help people change their behaviour and improve their quality of life. The guideline also covers support and intervention for family members or carers.

The guidelines stress the importance of carrying out thorough assessments to identify the multiple factors that are likely to contribute to any challenging behaviour. Any assessments should include assessment of the person, their environment and any biological predisposition, together with a functional assessment. Any intervention should be to improve the overall quality of the person's life. Key priorities for implementation cover general principles of care; support and interventions for family members or carers; early identification and assessment of behaviour that challenges; psychological and environmental interventions; and medication.