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3.4. Person-centred culture

In the context of disability services there is a gradual transition from a service led culture to one that is increasingly, although not yet consistently, person centred. Such a person centred culture has outcomes which are about more productive and meaningful lives and better connections with the community (Neill and Smith, 2008: 3). This person centred culture is one where listening and learning are built into every aspect of the service, no matter the size. This culture has deep values of respect for the individual and responsiveness to what is most important to and for them, and is not confined to disability services but also offers this to the wider community (Neill and Smith, 2008: 2).

Person centred thinking tools are increasingly the building blocks creating more flexible and responsive services. A greater level of consistent and ongoing application of person centred approaches can achieve a more person  centred culture.

There are a number of factors that will also influence this change:

• the growing voice of people with a disability, their families, carers and advocates
• greater control by people with a disability over how they choose to spend their funds
• a more competitive market where service providers will need to see the people they serve as consumers
• the growing number of individuals who champion a more person centred approach to their work
• dissatisfaction with existing services, together with the desire of staff for change.

The use of person centred approaches helps focus energy towards supporting people to realise their hopes and dreams, as well as keeping them healthy and safe in a way that makes sense for them.

Features of a person-centred organisation include the following:

• it knows its purpose and what it can offer others
• its leaders and decision makers know the people that the organisation supports
• everyone across all levels of the organisation understands the importance of taking a person centred approach
• it continues to evolve – it is fluid and learning
• it is open and unafraid of taking risks and making mistakes
• it consists of a group of individuals working to one purpose but remaining individuals
• it is not precious about its own resources, sharing for the good of all individuals (Neill and Smith, 2008: 8).

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