Part 1
Understanding challenging behaviour
Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet provide an introduction to why children and adults with learning disabilities may display challenging behaviour, and what you can do about it.
Making a difference
We are the only UK charity specifically focussed on the needs of children, young people and adults with severe learning disabilities whose behaviour may be described as challenging, and their families.
If your relative does not have severe learning disabilityChallenging behaviour resources
Part 2
Finding the reasons for challenging behaviour
Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet explain that all behaviour happens for a reason. This page introduces the different stages of behaviour and how a functional assessment can identify the exact causes of a person’s behaviour.
Part 3
Positive behaviour support planning
This page describes what is a Behaviour Support Plan, and how to create one. Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet provide eight key steps to making a plan, including proactive than reactive strategies.
Information and guidance
We hold a broad range of information and guidance about challenging behaviour and connected issues, including information sheets, FAQs, packs, templates and DVDs.
Positive Behaviour Support
We offer information resources about Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), which is a person-centred approach to supporting people with a learning disability.
Person-centred support
Our resources give information about different aspects of communication and teaching new skills, support packages, transition planning and planning for the future.
Health
Our resources give information about healthcare, answering your frequently asked questions on topics such as consenting to treatment and reasonable adjustments.
Early intervention
We have produced resources showing how methods using early intervention can reduce the severity and frequency of challenging behaviour and improve quality of life.
When things go wrong
The information on this page will help you understand what is meant by poor support and abuse, and who to talk to if you suspect your relative is coming to harm or not being cared for properly.
Wellbeing of family
The wellbeing of the whole family is of paramount importance to harmony and happiness; our resources provide advice and tips on how to keep parents, siblings and children well.
Rights and Advocacy
Our factsheets, FAQS and templates give valuable information about you and your family members’ legal rights.
Cost of living support
The CBF is producing and sharing resources that may provide some useful information and advice if you or your family are struggling with the cost of living.
Latest updates
We have a range of articles covering the latest news relating to severe learning disabilities, our own statements, newsletters, CBF news (such as vacancies) and families’ stories. Read our latest articles below, or search for something more specific:
ITV News story highlights the impact of detaining people with a learning disability and autistic people in hospital
An investigation by ITV shows that people with a learning disability and autistic people who are detained under the Mental Health Act are subject to restraint and overmedication
Challenge Newsletter Summer 2025: Good Communication for Good Lives
Read our summer 2025 edition of our newsletter Challenge
MPs call for a plan to develop community support for people with a learning disability and autistic people
During the Mental Health Bill's second reading in the House of Commons, MPs highlighted the importance of strong community support.
What we do
Making a difference to the lives of people with severe learning disabilities whose behaviour challenges.
What we doFor families, friends and carers
Do you support someone with severe learning disabilities and behaviours that challenge? We can help.
For health and care professionals
If you are involved in supporting people with severe learning disabilities and behaviours that challenge, we can help.
Keep in touch
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation's newsletter 'Challenge' is produced three times a year. Subscription is free of charge.
Support our work
We know there are at least 30,000 families in the UK caring for someone with a severe learning disability whose behaviour challenges. What you raise can make a huge difference to what we can achieve for families across the UK.