ORG10 ACTION – What Will We Do?
An action should respond directly to the identified sensory barrier and support as much independence as reasonably possible.
Five things to consider
Match action to need
Choose an intervention because it addresses the defined barrier, not because it is routinely offered.
Support independence
Avoid taking over tasks that the person can do with an appropriate adjustment.
Be specific
State what will change, how and by whom.
Make it feasible
The action must work in the person’s real environment and routine.
Aim for consistency
Relevant staff should understand and apply the agreed approach.
Turning this into practical action
✓ Link every action to a specific identified need.
✓ Agree the approach with the person where possible.
✓ Explain enough detail for staff to implement it consistently.
✓ Avoid introducing equipment or techniques without considering suitability and safe use.
What this can look like in practice
If a person cannot distinguish two similar bathroom bottles, the action may be an agreed tactile or high-contrast identification method rather than staff simply taking over the task.
Question for your organisation
Could each action in the care plan be traced back to a clearly identified sensory need?
Important boundary
Equipment, techniques and environmental changes are not universally suitable. Individual circumstances, abilities, instructions and relevant professional advice should be considered.
Want to take this further?
Good action is specific, proportionate and connected to the person’s desired outcome. If this resource has highlighted gaps in your organisation’s sensory practice, Sensory Visionaries can help, from reviewing what you currently have in place to providing a structured approach through the Sensory Compliance System.