Positive risk taking is defined as ‘…weighing up the potential benefits and harms of exercising one choice of action over another. Identifying the potential risks involved, and developing plans and actions that reflect the positive potentials and stated priorities of the client. It involves using available resources and support to achieve the desired outcomes, and to minimise the potential harmful outcomes. It is not negligent ignorance of the potential risks… it is usually a very carefully thought out strategy for managing a specific situation or set of circumstances.’ (Steve Morgan, 2004, Positive risk-taking: an idea whose time has come. Health Care Risk Report, 10 (10):18-19.)
Related publications:
Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) briefing: ‘Enabling risk, ensuring safety: Self-directed support and personal budgets’
SCIE/TLAP (Think Local Act Personl) publication: ‘A Positive Approach to Risk & Personalisation: A Framework’
Joseph Rowntree Foundation paper: ‘The right to take risks: service users’ views of risk in adult social care’ (particularly the conclusions on pp 9-10).
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