Positive risk-taking is at the heart of our support model,  at ivolve we recognise the importance of risk in personal development and empowerment. It involves supporting people in making informed decisions about their own lives, including decisions that entail a certain level of risk.

This approach is founded on the belief that taking risks can lead to improved quality of life, greater independence, and personal growth.

Here are some of my ideas on how positive risk-taking can be supported in a least restrictive way:

Empowerment and Autonomy

Empower individuals by respecting their right to make their own choices, including those that involve risk. This involves treating them as active participants in decision-making processes, put the person at the centre of the discussion.

Informed Decision Making

Ensure that individuals have all the necessary information to understand the potential benefits and consequences of their choices. Provide clear, accessible information and support them in weighing the pros and cons. We are here to give them the advice they need to make the right decision, they may not always make it !! 

Assessing and Managing Risk

Collaboratively assess the risks involved in the choices being considered. This should be a balanced assessment that looks not just at the potential harm, but also at the potential benefits of taking the risk. Develop strategies with the person to manage and minimise risks without overly restricting the individual’s choices.

Individualised Support

Remember that each person’s needs and circumstances are unique. Tailor support to fit the individual, considering their personal preferences, abilities, and goals. Work with the person and their MDT, look at how you can be creative with support hours. High support hours does not necessarily manage risk. Great support planning and working with the persons circle of support are the best ways to support people.

Building Skills and Confidence

Support individuals in developing the skills and confidence needed to manage risks effectively. This can include teaching problem-solving skills, decision-making strategies, and coping mechanisms for dealing with potential negative outcomes. Maybe you need ask for additional support hours initially for a person but make a commitment with them that you will work to reduce a person support hours over time.

Safety Planning

While encouraging risk-taking, it’s also important to have safety plans in place. This must include detailed support plans, risk assessments,  emergency contacts, contingency plans, and regular check-ins with professionals to ensure everyone involved is up to date and has had a say. How we work with the persons and the people important all make for better outcomes.

Regularly review the outcomes of the risk-taking decisions.

This should be a learning process where both the individual and the support team can reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Focus on great outcomes for people and how they are going to achieve them as part of the person review.

Least Restrictive Approach

Always opt for the least restrictive option that effectively manages the risk. This means avoiding unnecessary limitations on the individual’s freedom and choices. Does the person need more support hours, can we support them in a different way, what are the persons strengths and how can we maximise them. Are the support hours reflective of the risk. Can we commit to reduce support hours over time. How often are we reviewing restrictions on a person?

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Ensure that all practices align with legal frameworks and ethical standards, especially concerning consent and capacity.

Positive risk-taking is about balancing safety with empowerment and personal growth. It involves supporting individuals in making informed choices, even when those choices involve risk, and doing so in a way that respects their rights, autonomy, and desire for a fulfilling life.