Non-restrictive and restrictive physical interventions

What are non-restrictive and restrictive physical interventions?

It is important that schools and settings understand the difference between non-restrictive and restrictive physical intervention as this will have an impact on policy, recording and reporting of incidents. 

Non-restrictive interventions

These approaches are non-restrictive and aim to manage behaviours that challenge without physically restricting movement. 

Non-restrictive techniques should always be considered before more restrictive options are used.  

Examples include distraction, redirection, and giving the person space. Within schools or settings, non-restrictive physical interventions may include 'side hugs', guiding away and hand holding. 

Some schools or settings will record these physical interventions as part of their policy, however, this is not a legal requirement. Staff should check their own policy for guidance regarding this. 

Restrictive interventions

These methods restrict or limit a person's movement or freedom. Within schools and settings, the most common restrictive interventions are restraints which involve direct physical contact (e.g. restricting the movement of arms while standing, walking or sitting). 

Restrictive practices should be: 

• A last resort 
• The least restrictive option 
• To prevent harm 
• Reasonable, proportionate and necessary 
• Used for the shortest possible time 
• Never intentionally causing pain or suffering 
• Planned and agreed with other professionals wherever possible 
• Discussed with the child or young person and their family 
• Part of a planned approach to supporting behaviours that harm 

What needs to happen after any restrictive physical intervention?

• Any restrictive physical intervention must be recorded using the school or setting's agreed format. 
• Children and young people involved should be given the opportunity to discuss any such incident and their voice and views recorded. Children and young people with communication differences should be given accessible means to share their views. 
• A health check for the child or young person should take place during and after any restrictive physical intervention. 
• The family/other relevant professionals should be notified. 
• A debrief session for staff members should be held. 
• The behaviour support plan for the child or young person should be reviewed and changed if necessary. 

What does the law say? 

Remember, safety and well-being are paramount, and these interventions should always be used judiciously and with care. Seek professional guidance when needed. 

1.  Legal framework

The Department for Education (DfE) provides guidance on the use of reasonable force in schools:

• This guidance applies to various types of schools, including local-authority-maintained schools, academies, free schools, pupil referral units, non-maintained special schools, and independent schools. 
• The guidance outlines that 'It is always unlawful to use force as a punishment. This is because it would fall within the definition of corporal punishment, which is illegal.' However, staff may use restraint in certain situations, but only when necessary and proportionate. 

2.  Human rights perspective

Under the Human Rights Act, public authorities can only interfere with a child's rights (including the right to respect for private life and physical integrity) if it is lawful, necessary and proportionate to protect national security or public safety. 

3.  Reducing the need for restraint and restrictive intervention 

• This GOV.UK guidance on reducing the need for restraint and restrictive intervention is for health services, social care services and education settings. 
• It sets out how to support children and young people with learning disabilities, autistic spectrum conditions and mental health difficulties who are at risk of restrictive intervention. 

Remember, the focus should always be on ensuring children and young people's safety while respecting their rights. If you have specific concerns, consult the official guidance or seek legal advice. 

Support within Norfolk

• Norfolk Steps provides training and guidance to understand, support and manage behaviours that may challenge or harm.  This includes, planning, viewing behaviour as communication, and as a last resort, training in restrictive physical intervention.
• The Norfolk Steps team has also collated useful resources into a behaviour toolkit. 

Key contacts

If you would like some talk to a member of our team for additional support and guidance, then please contact us on 0333 313 7165.