Reducing reliance on restrictive practices

The NHS has been working with arm’s length bodies on a cross-sector improvement programme to reduce reliance on restrictive practice. As part of this work, the Restraint Reduction Network was commissioned to develop standards for training for the prevention and, where necessary, use of restrictive interventions. These standards were published in April 2019 and are available on the Restraint Reduction Website. Training services can be certified as complying with the standards.

It is likely that use of the standards will be a contractual requirement for mental health providers from April 2020, and it would be good practice for other health and social care providers to comply.