John O’Brien’s Five Essential Service Accomplishments were aimed at focusing and guiding staff in their work. The accomplishments describe worthy consequences of supported activities. Each accomplishment supports what is considered to be a vital aspect of human experience which common practice often limits for people with severe disabilities.

Each accomplishment recognises the interdependence that exists between individuals, and challenges and strengthens the relationship between people with disabilities and other community members. The aim was to ensure that a human service programme, focused on community participation, would assist people with severe disabilities to form and maintain the variety of ties and connections that constitute community life.