Behavioural & Wellbeing Assessments
Clear, compassionate assessment processes that strengthen understanding, reduce risk and improve quality of life.
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Assessment at PBS UK
Assessment is not about labelling people. It is about understanding.
At PBS UK, assessment is a structured, ethical and person-centred process that helps us understand behaviour, wellbeing and the systems around a person. We combine behavioural science with quality of life frameworks and organisational review tools to ensure our recommendations are both meaningful and implementable.
Our assessments inform:
- Individual Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plans
- Risk reduction and safety planning
- Wellbeing development
- Discharge or transition planning
- Court and safeguarding processes
- System-wide quality improvement
We work at both individual and organisational levels, ensuring that what we recommend can realistically be delivered in everyday settings.
What Is a Behavioural Assessment?
Our Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBAs) explore the important needs and purposes that behaviours of concern may serve for the person. They help us understand how behaviour has developed over time, what maintains it, and how it connects with the person’s communication, environment, relationships, health and wellbeing.
We draw together information from observation, discussion and existing records to build a clear, shared understanding of how behaviour makes sense in that person’s life. Rather than focusing only on what someone does, we look at the broader context: what’s happening around them, what matters to them, and what might be affecting their wellbeing.
This process helps identify both strengths and unmet needs — guiding practical, compassionate plans that reduce distress and enhance quality of life.
Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
Understanding the function of behaviour
A Functional Behaviour Assessment explores the important needs that behaviour may be communicating or meeting.
Rather than focusing only on what someone does, we explore:
- What is happening before and after behaviour
- What the person may be gaining, avoiding or communicating
- How health, environment, relationships and systems influence behaviour
- What skills may need to be developed
- Where wellbeing may be compromised
Our FBAs draw together observation, interviews, data analysis and record review to create a clear formulation of behaviour and associated risk.
The outcome is an evidence-based report and a practical Behaviour Support Plan focused primarily on proactive strategies and skill development – with reactive guidance only where necessary for safety.
PERMA Wellbeing Assessment
Strengthening wellbeing to reduce distress
The PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment) is a structured wellbeing assessment and planning framework drawn from positive psychology.
It has become a standardised component of our functional assessment procedures, and in many cases functions as a stand-alone assessment when behaviours are not high-risk but are impacting quality of life.
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The five PERMA domains:
Positive Emotion – How often does the person experience feelings such as joy, comfort, safety or calm? What contributes to distress?
Engagement – When does the person feel absorbed, interested or motivated? Are there opportunities to use strengths and preferences?
Relationships – Does the person experience safe, supportive and reciprocal relationships? Are connections culturally meaningful?
Meaning – Does the person feel valued? Do they have roles, identity and purpose that matter to them?
Accomplishment – Are there achievable goals? Does the person experience progress and mastery?
For some individuals, improving wellbeing across these domains can significantly reduce behaviours that challenge without intensive behavioural intervention.
This assessment helps us move beyond risk reduction toward expanding a person’s life opportunities.
Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) & Skills-Based Treatment (SBT)
A compassionate, practical model for complex behaviour
PBS UK is, to the best of our knowledge, the first organisation in the UK to gain credentialed status from FTF Consulting (USA) for the Practical Functional Assessment and Skills-Based Treatment model.
Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) is a structured, in-context assessment process that identifies the functional variables maintaining severe or complex behaviour in a safe and efficient manner.
It focuses on synthesised contingencies — understanding how multiple environmental factors combine to influence behaviour.
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Skills-Based Treatment (SBT) builds directly from the assessment and teaches three essential repertoires:
- Communication
- Tolerance
- Contextually appropriate alternative behaviours
The aim is not simply to reduce behaviour, but to build flexibility, resilience and functional skills that generalise across settings.
This approach aligns closely with our person-centred PBS framework and is always implemented ethically, collaboratively and with consent.
Sensory Assessment
Understanding sensory needs and regulation
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- Patterns of sensory seeking or avoidance
- Environmental triggers
- Regulation needs
- The interaction between sensory load and behaviour
We examine how environments may be overwhelming, under-stimulating or unpredictable, and identify practical adaptations.
Sensory assessment findings are integrated into PBS plans, environmental design and daily routines to reduce distress and improve participation.
Hear From the People We Support
Real stories, real outcomes, real change.
How We Carry Out a Behavioural Assessment
- Referral & purpose setting: we agree aims, gather consent and clarify the outcomes needed (safety, discharge planning, PBS plan, court report).
- Records review: we review any relevant reports of records relating to the person. This might include previous assessments, support plans, medical history, life stories, incident recordings or anything else that gives a clear picture of the person and context.
- Interviews with key people: we speak with the person (using accessible communication if necessary), families, support staff, teachers and clinicians.
- Direct observation & data collection: We spend time observing the person at a time and within a place that feels the most relevant. We will tailor these observations around the person’s needs. We will also collect and analyse incident data, potentially implementing simple recording methods to help with this.
- Functional analysis / hypothesis testing: when safe and ethical, we may conduct an in-situ analysis to ensure our understanding of the behaviour is correct.
- Formulation & risk appraisal: we bring together clinical insight and data to form a clear explanation of behaviour and associated risk.
- Recommendations & planning:We summarise our findings in a clear FBA report and a practical Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) with a focus upon proactive strategies that have been informed by our findings, alongside reactive approaches to provide safe and compassionate methods to support behaviours when they occur.
- Implementation support: We work with the team or family to understand and implement the plan, using tailored coaching and training. We make a plan for ongoing plan review and monitoring to ensure effective implementation continues, and to monitor the outcomes for the person.
Our practice is always non-judgemental, evidence-based and person-centred. We emphasise dignity, choice and the person’s long-term quality of life
What You Can Expect
A typical assessment package is delivered over 2–8 weeks, depending on complexity and setting. Early safety recommendations can be provided immediately if risk is identified. You’ll receive:
- A clear FBA report with observed patterns, functions and risk information.
- A practical Behaviour Support Plan with proactive strategies, skill-teaching goals and reactive guidance.
- Data collection templates and a monitoring schedule.
- Training or coaching sessions for staff/carers to ensure consistent implementation.
- Follow-up review dates and a proposal for ongoing support where needed.
We keep communication open throughout – you’ll always know what we’re doing, why, and how it helps the person.
Who a Behavioural Assessment Is For
Behavioural Assessments are used wherever behaviour is affecting wellbeing, safety, learning, participation or relationships. Typical referrals include families and carers, schools and further education settings, care providers, supported living services, health teams, hospitals, and criminal justice and probation services.
We support children, young people and adults (including older adults) across neurodevelopmental and acquired conditions – including autism, learning disability, brain injury, dementia and co-occurring mental health needs.
Quality Audit & Systems Review (OPSD Framework)
Outcomes. Practices. Systems. Data.
For organisations seeking improvement, quality due diligence, or commissioner-led review, we utilise an OPSD framework (Outcomes, Practices, Systems, Data).
This structured audit approach examines service quality as a function of four interacting domains:
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Outcomes
Are quality of life and behaviour targets clearly specified, culturally meaningful, endorsed and monitored?
Practices
Are interventions evidence-based and aligned with the outcomes identified?
Systems
Are there organisational supports in place to ensure practices are implemented accurately and sustainably?
Data
Is information used effectively to select, monitor and evaluate outcomes, practices and systems?
This framework allows us to:
- Support system-wide PBS implementation
- Conduct independent quality audits
- Assist local authorities reviewing provider quality
- Contribute to due diligence during organisational sale or purchase
- Identify strengths and improvement priorities
Our reports are clear, structured and actionable — linking directly to measurable improvement plans.
Who Our Assessments Support
We work with:
- Families and carers
- Schools and further education settings
- Care providers and supported living services
- NHS and hospital teams
- Commissioners and local authorities
- Criminal justice and probation services
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We support children, young people, adults and older adults across neurodevelopmental, acquired and age-related conditions.
If you feel an assessment approach could support you or your organisation – even if your setting is not listed – please contact us. If we believe we can help, we will explore options with you. If not, we will aim to signpost you appropriately.
Take the First Step Today.
We’re here when you’re ready
No judgment — Practical support — Meaningful change
What You Can Expect
- Clear, defensible reports
- Person-centred and culturally responsive assessment
- Practical, implementable recommendations
- Measurable outcomes
- Transparent communication throughout
- Early safety advice where risk is identified
Typical timeframes range from 2–8 weeks depending on complexity, with expedited pathways for urgent cases.
How We Carry Out Assessments
We work with:
Families and carers
Schools and further education settings
Care providers and supported living services
NHS and hospital teams
Commissioners and local authorities
Criminal justice and probation services
We support children, young people, adults and older adults across neurodevelopmental, acquired and age-related conditions.
If you feel an assessment approach could support you or your organisation – even if your setting is not listed – please contact us. If we believe we can help, we will explore options with you. If not, we will aim to signpost you appropriately.
Why Choose PBS UK for Assessment?
Multidisciplinary expertise
Credentialed PFA/SBT provider
Evidence-based, ethical and non-judgemental practice
Implementation-led recommendations
Experience at individual and system-wide levels
Clear governance and review structures
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) Assessment
Structured observational assessment within a broader understanding framework
In addition to behavioural and wellbeing assessments, PBS UK is able to undertake Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) assessments.
The ADOS-2 is a standardised, semi-structured observational assessment designed to support the identification of autism spectrum conditions. It involves structured social and communication activities tailored to the individual’s age and language level.
Our ADOS assessments:
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- Are conducted by a trained clinician
- Follow standardised administration and scoring procedures
- Form part of a broader developmental and contextual understanding
- Contribute to multidisciplinary diagnostic processes where appropriate
We are careful to ensure that assessment is not reduced to a single tool. The ADOS is most meaningful when interpreted within a wider developmental history, functional profile and environmental context.
In some cases, families or individuals seek greater understanding without pursuing a formal diagnostic pathway. In these situations, we can use structured assessment processes to inform practical recommendations, adaptations and support planning — while respecting the individual’s wishes regarding disclosure and next steps.
Where a full diagnostic process is required, we can:
- Contribute ADOS assessment as part of a multidisciplinary pathway
- Work alongside paediatric, psychiatric or psychology colleagues
- Provide clear written reports suitable for panel review
Our focus remains the same: understanding the person, reducing barriers and improving quality of life.
Our Services
Meet the PBS UK Team
Meet the friendly faces behind every PBS UK plan, assessment and training session.
Paddy Behan
Co-Founder & Director
Tia Martin
Co-Founder & Director
Donald Martin
Company Secretary
Hannah Newcombe
Senior Associate Director
Huw Price
PBS Practicioner
Katie Lyon
Associate Director
Anna Knight
PBS Practitioner
Kate Barker
PBS Practitioner
Sandra Bryan
PBS Practicioner
Susie Jenni
PBS Practitioner
Poonam Khunti
PBS Trainee Practitioner
Jonathan Shield
PBS Technician
Iain Thomson
PBS Practitioner
Where To Find Us
While PBS UK is registered as a business in Scotland, our team is based across the UK and we deliver services nationwide
Registered in Scotland with company number SC540834.
Contact Us
Reach out today – we’d love to hear from you!
FAQs | Behavioural & Wellbeing Assessments at PBS UK
Will a behavioural assessment give us a diagnosis?
Not usually. Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA), PERMA wellbeing assessments and sensory assessments are not diagnostic tools. They describe patterns, functions and contextual influences on behaviour and wellbeing.
However, we are also able to undertake ADOS-2 assessments as part of a structured autism diagnostic process. Where a full diagnosis is required, this should sit within a multidisciplinary pathway. We can contribute to that process and ensure findings link directly to practical support planning.
What is the difference between FBA, PERMA and PFA/SBT?
FBA (Functional Behaviour Assessment) explores why behaviour is happening and what may be maintaining it. It draws on observation, interview and data analysis to develop a functional hypothesis. FBA can be used across a range of presentations, including severe behaviour, and forms the foundation of most PBS planning.
PERMA assessment focuses on wellbeing domains – Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment. In some situations, particularly where behaviours are lower risk, strengthening wellbeing can significantly reduce the need for behaviours that challenge without intensive behavioural intervention.
PFA/SBT (Practical Functional Assessment & Skills-Based Treatment) provides a more structured and rigorous approach to defining behavioural function, particularly where behaviour is severe, high-risk or complex. Practical Functional Assessment systematically identifies synthesised contingencies influencing behaviour, and Skills-Based Treatment then builds communication, tolerance and contextually appropriate alternative skills in a carefully sequenced way.
We recommend the most proportionate, ethical and least intrusive assessment pathway based on risk, complexity and the outcomes required.
Are your reports suitable for court, safeguarding or panel processes?
Yes. We prepare clear, evidence-based and defensible reports suitable for:
- Case conferences
- Safeguarding reviews
- Commissioner panels
- Tribunal or court processes
- Due diligence review
Our reports are structured, transparent and grounded in behavioural science and quality of life frameworks.
Can you support system-wide or organisational review?
Yes. In addition to individual assessments, we conduct Quality Audit and Systems Review using the Outcomes–Practices–Systems–Data (OPSD) framework.
This can support:
- Service improvement planning
- Local authority provider review
- Governance and oversight
- Organisational transition or due diligence
Assessment at PBS UK operates at both individual and system levels.
How do you keep the person central to the process?
We prioritise:
- Informed consent
- Accessible communication
- Co-production
- Cultural responsiveness
- Respect for privacy and disclosure preferences
The person’s voice, preferences and goals shape every recommendation. Assessment is something we do with people, not to them.
Can you work across multiple settings (home, school, hospital)?
Yes. Behaviour and wellbeing are influenced by context, so cross-setting consistency is often essential.
We coordinate with families, providers, education teams and health professionals to ensure recommendations are realistic and implementable wherever the person lives, learns or receives care.
How is success measured?
We use a combination of:
- Baseline and ongoing behavioural data (frequency, duration, severity)
- Skill acquisition measures
- Wellbeing indicators (including PERMA domains where relevant)
- Qualitative feedback from the person and their network
- Organisational data (in OPSD reviews)
Success is demonstrated by reduced risk, improved skills, strengthened wellbeing and meaningful quality of life outcomes.
How quickly can you start?
We typically offer an initial consultation within 5–10 working days (often sooner). Urgent safety cases can be prioritised.
Timeframes for full assessment depend on complexity, scope and setting, but we will always be clear about anticipated timelines from the outset.
If we’re unsure which assessment we need, what should we do?
Contact us for an initial discussion. We will help clarify whether a functional assessment, wellbeing assessment, sensory review, PFA/SBT pathway, ADOS assessment or organisational audit is most appropriate.
If we feel we are not the right service, we will aim to signpost you accordingly.
Still have questions?
Contact our team or call us on 01234 567890 — we’re happy to talk through your situation.
Take the First Step Today.
We’re here when you’re ready
No judgment — Practical support — Meaningful change
