Physical intervention/restraint use in school

[Dotdotdotdot19]

Hi all,

I had a behaviour review plan type meeting with my DD5s class teacher and she's highlighted that the school are keen to utilise STEPS restraint techniques in certain scenarios. I, in my previous role, have been trained in these techniques and understand that their use is last resort etc so I understand if it is needed to keep her safe.

However, in my opinion, I am not certain that some examples of it being needed are justifiable and was wondering if anyone knew whether I could refuse to give permission in those circumstances?

The school doesn’t need your permission. But restraint should be a last resort in order to keep DD and others safe. If that isn’t happening and restraint is being used inappropriately, you should complain. What support is DD receiving? What steps is the school using to prevent escalation in the first place and deescalate situations?

The thing is this situation is not one that would impact the safety of herself, staff or others. It's basically moving her to the toilet if she need changing and she's refusing to go at that point. If she is behaving dangerously or trying to abscond then I'm ok with the use of physical intervention but I just can't see how this situation is justified, if that makes sense?

I've asked them previously if they have looked at what's happening and haven't had any satisfactory response but they have now decided to suggest this is a logical step. She usually goes with minimal prompting so there is definitely something wrong in these few instances in my opinion.

The school should be looking at the reasons behind DD’s reluctance.

It is worth asking more questions about the specifics of the situation. If the school is ignoring you, escalate the matter. Obviously I don’t know the whole situation or DD, but a child needing changing could in some circumstances be a health and safety concern and, for example, could reasonably need a guiding arm.

Thanks, I've asked for them to do a more thorough look into those (admittedly rare) instances when she is refusing to go and they have agreed and will feedback to me Monday so I can suggest reasons if they can't see anything.

I am fully aware and support the use of intervention when needed but this just feels a bit off to me and I can't follow the logic - she's distressed about going and moving her will add to the distress which will impact her going in nowhere situations. As I said she normally goes without fuss but every now and then just won't. Hope that makes sense and thank you for replying.