Philosophy

Tautoko Services believes in the inclusion of all people within the community.

Tautoko Services is committed to working collaboratively with people whose behaviour challenges.

We believe that behaviours that challenge are about relationships:"I do what I do in order to get what I need from people around me".

We believe that behaviours that challenge are about history: "If you want to help me to change, you'll have to understand where I come from".`

We believe that behaviours that challenge are about communication: "How else can I get my message across?"

We believe that behaviours that challenge are about respect: "If you try to dominate or control me, I will fight you any way I can".

We believe that behaviours that challenge are about anxiety: " I am often frightened and confused and I have been hurt before".

We see the challenges within the context of the community in which the individual lives.

We work along side individuals and families, listening to their stories and identifying their strengths, so that we can support them to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

We offer open, honest and non-aversive support based on research, experience and professional best practices. Communication, relationships and participation are central to our approach.

We recognise that behaviours that challenge occur within a cultural context and can only be fully understood within this context.

Our relationship with other service agencies and their staff will be based on principles of respect, support and empowerment.

We provide staff development with an emphasis on value based training, in response to identified learning needs. We recognise that one of our key roles is to provide support and training to enable hands-on staff to do their job.
(March 2007)

To view a copy of the Tautoko Research Summary click on the following link
Tautoko Research Summary pdf