result of difficulties in communication the ASD person is more likely to simplify communication or withdraw from it at all, resulting in them becoming even more isolated.
Approaches to Autism 16. Describe the concept of a person centred approach 2 Marks
A person centred approach keeps the needs of the individual central, and tailors the health care, facilities, opportunities and any other needs to their individual circumstance. So does not adopt a
one size fits all approach. It is a social support model that has been advocated by the government white paper Valuing People Now 2009. As such, this approach is regarded as the best practice to
use for people with autism and learning difficulties. It centres around the notion that everyone has the same rights and choices, should be treated with
dignity and respect, and given the same chances as everyone else, including the right to take responsibility. This extends to their families too. It helps all parties involved, from the individual to
those providing the support whether professionally or family in a holistic approach.
17. Identify the reasons for using a person centred plan 5 Marks
A person centred plan is a document outlines all the services, support and actions required and agreed by the person whom care will be delivered to.
This needs to be agreed to ensure that the person can live life to the fullest they are able to
and as much as possible, how they would like to live it.
It takes into account all individuals involved in care, lets the individual and family to be
valued which in turn will raise self-confidence and esteem, so quality of life will be improved.
Regular reviews of need. Areas of need are varied, they can include social, medical,
education, communication, and even exercise. They will differ depending on the individual. They may also change over time. So to ensure that the best possible care is given this needs
to be reviewed regularly. Plans should build on the strengths and work on weaknesses where possible.
By getting all people to input into the plan it gets the person’s life experience to be recorded
more holistically, so that support can be tailored accordingly to include likes and dislikes, areas of difficulty and reactions to medication.
Goal setting gives the person something to work towards. It must be SMART, this way
milestones can be tracked, gives the person motivation, which in turn will increase performance.
Action plans break down goals into achievable chunks, to maintain momentum.
Risk management involves identifying risks assessing the likelihood of the risk occurring,
what the consequences will be and ways of minimising the risk as far as possible.
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18. Define the term Social Inclusion 1 Marks
Social inclusion gives certain rights to everyone. This includes ensuring everyone’s basic needs are met in the form of access to employment, adequate housing, essential material goods and
services, health care, education and training, etc. On a practical level this means working with communities to tackle and avoid circumstances that lead to social exclusion, such as poverty,
unemployment or low income, housing problems and becoming housebound and isolated due to illness.
Practical Suggestions When Working with Autism 19. Provide two suggestions for creating a safe environment for individuals with ASD 2 Marks
A calm and structured environment will assist. This means adapting the rooms and its contents so they are calm and clearly show what activity should be carried out in it. items could be labelled so
they can use it will non or minimal support. Hazardous substances must be locked away. Thick carpet will reduce noise, double glazing will also reduce outside noise, and walls can be painted in a calm
colour.
Alongside this an effective way to create a safe environment is well structured and supportive. This
may not need any physical alteration; instead it requires a routine and strategies to support a person with autism. The National Autistic Society NAS advocate the SPELL environment
Structure - giving structure to daily life can reduce the anxiety of not knowing. sudden changes to daily routine should be avoided to minimise anxiety
Positive - use positive viewpoint and reinforcement especially when given opportunities to try new activities in a supportive environment. Give realistic goals to develop self-esteem and
confidence.
Empathy - to put oneself in someone else’s shoes and we need to understand the autistic world. This will help to understand how to help overcome difficulties.
Low arousal - By limiting disruption, noise, etc. they are more likely to learn and work effectively. Calm speaking and slower movements can help reduce anxiety also.
Links - open communication is important as it reduces misunderstandings and promotes consistency
20. Describe two visual strategies used to support individuals with ASD 2 Marks
