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Supporting the Initiative to Minimise Psychotropic Medication Use: STOMP and STOMPOZ.

Updated: Mar 26

At Welcome Care Services, we proudly endorse initiatives aimed at minimising the inappropriate prescription and overuse of psychotropic medications, notably the STOMP (Stopping Over-Medication of People with a learning disability, Autism, or both) initiative from the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), and Australia’s STOMPOZ.

Understanding STOMP and STOMPOZ Initiatives


STOMP is a widely respected initiative launched by the UK's NHS, addressing the critical public health issue of psychotropic medication overuse among people with learning disabilities and autism. Similarly, Australia has embraced the STOMPOZ initiative, reflecting a dedicated national effort to reduce unnecessary psychotropic medication among individuals with disabilities and older adults.

On March 21, 2022, a significant joint statement was issued by the Aged Care Quality and Safeguards Commission (ACQSC), the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission (NDISQSC), and the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC). The statement clearly acknowledges circumstances where psychotropic medications are clinically justified and essential, stressing adherence to medical advice and professional guidelines. However, it also raises valid concerns about the excessive and inappropriate prescription of these medications, highlighting the need for thoughtful intervention and oversight.

Our Commitment to Best Practices and Responsible Medication Management

At Welcome Care Services, we stand aligned with international best practices by proactively supporting the responsible use of psychotropic medications. We recognise that medications, when prescribed and managed appropriately, play an essential role in treating and managing certain medical and psychiatric conditions. In every circumstance, we strictly adhere to clinical directives provided by qualified healthcare professionals.

We are particularly inspired by the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the joint statement from ACQSC, NDISQSC, and ACSQHC, and by the STOMPOZ initiative. This collaborative approach emphasises shared responsibility among stakeholders, including prescribers, caregivers, family members, and support providers.


Our Approach and Responsibility:

  • Collaboration and Shared Learning: We leverage STOMPOZ as an opportunity to actively collaborate with other healthcare providers and stakeholders. We seek continuous improvement by learning and sharing evidence-based strategies that effectively minimise unnecessary medication use.

  • Promoting Accountability Without Blame: At Welcome Care Services, we focus on problem-solving and collaboration rather than assigning blame. We view our organisation, alongside all involved stakeholders, as integral to the solution.

  • Training and Education: We ensure that our staff receive ongoing, high-quality training about psychotropic medications, their therapeutic uses, potential side effects, policies, and procedures. Our commitment is to empower staff to support individuals and families in making informed and responsible decisions about medication.

  • Proactive Medication Monitoring: We uphold our responsibility for administering medications accurately, diligently monitoring for adverse reactions, documenting side effects, and facilitating timely medication reviews by healthcare professionals.

Working Together to Influence Positive Change

As a service provider managing behaviours of concern within our operational environment, we acknowledge our influential role in fostering behavioural change through person-centred, positive behaviour supports. We continue to work closely with prescribers, behaviour support practitioners, families, advocates, and regulatory bodies to promote awareness and best practices.

Important Advice:

For individuals currently prescribed psychotropic medications or their caregivers, it is essential to continue following your current medication regimen exactly as prescribed. Always consult your prescribing healthcare professional before making any changes.

Our Commitment:

Welcome Care Services remains steadfastly committed to addressing this important public health issue through collaborative, respectful, and evidence-based practices, contributing to improved quality of life for all individuals under our care.

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