Glossary
Person Centred Planning
'Person centred planning' is a process of life planning for individuals, based around the principles of inclusion and the social model of disability. Derived mainly from the early work in building circles of support, these tools should be available for us all. Person centred planning tools are alive and active, always ensuring the focus person is central and in control. They are flexible, setting no limits to the person's wants, needs and dreams for their life.
In 'person centred planning' the process, as well as the product, is owned and controlled by the person (and sometimes their closest family and friends). As there are no prescribed forms, tick boxes or checklists, the resulting plan of support is totally individual. It creates a comprehensive portrait of who the person is and what they want to do with their life and brings together all of the people who are important to the person including family, friends, neighbours, support workers and other professionals involved in their lives.
The University of Lancaster did some research to find out what a difference person centred planning made in peoples' lives, and what helped it work. Here is the results of that research.
*Note - The following links/downloads are taken from the Valuing People website.
The Impact of Person Centred Planning (PDF 710 KB), Summary of the research in easy words (PDF 340 KB)
Service User
A 'Service User' is anyone who uses the services provided by a project, organisation or agency.
Valuing People
Valuing People is the government's plan for making the lives of people with learning disabilities, their families and carers better. It was written in 2001, and it was the first White Paper for people with learning disabilities for 30 years. It covers England. It is based on people having:
- their rights as citizens
- inclusion in local communities
- choice in daily life
- real chances to be independent
It was written with help from people with learning disabilities, family carers, and people who work in services or other organisations for people with learning disabilities.
Visit the Valuing People website.