Person Centred Planning

At Spectrum Society, we build all our services on something called person-centred planning. Instead of using ready-made programs, we start by learning about each person. We want to know their dreams, what they hope for, and how they see a good life. Then, we work together with the person, their family, and their support team to make a plan that fits them best.

Planning for a good life can look different for everyone. Some plans are formal, while others are more casual. Some involve lots of people, while others involve just a few. The goal might be big changes or small steps forward. But no matter what, the plan should be led by the person and the people closest to them. That’s what person-centred planning is all about.

In the past, planning was usually done by experts once a year, following a set format. It focused on what was wrong with a person and how to fix it. But person-centred planning is different. It focuses on a person’s strengths and talents, asking how we can build on them. It’s not a one-time meeting or a strict process. Instead, it’s ongoing and flexible, changing as the person grows and learns.

Person-Centred Planning

• Is ongoing and flexible
• Can happen anywhere, in a comfortable setting
• Decision-making rests with the person and their close ones
• Staff work with the person every step of the way
• Focuses on strengths and what the person can do
• Centres on supporting the person in the community
• Results in flexible, individualized action plans

Traditional Planning

• Happens once a year, as a single event
• Usually takes place in an office around a table
• Decision-making rests with staff and professionals
• Staff come up with a plan, with or without the person’s input
• Focuses on deficits and what’s wrong with the person
• Centres on fitting the person into programs
• Results in a fixed document for a year

Person-centred planning has key elements:

• The person is at the centre, and their input is valued throughout the process.
• Family and friends are partners in planning.
• The plan reflects what’s important to the person and what support they need.
• The plan focuses on life, not just services, and is flexible.
• It leads to ongoing action and learning.