Use of reasonable force and restrictive practices in schools - Call for evidence

Closed 11 May 2023

Opened 16 Feb 2023

Contact

Behaviour Unit

0370 000 2288

CFE.Restraint@education.gov.uk

Overview

We’re seeking to understand how reasonable force, restraint and restrictive practices are used in schools to inform revisions to guidance.

Why your views matter

The Government has committed to minimising the use of restraint in all schools and in instances where restraint is necessary and lawful, to support school to use it as safely as possible.

We have launched a call for evidence to understand more about the use of reasonable force, physical restraint and restrictive practices in schools. Your views will help to inform revisions to existing guidance to ensure all schools are calm, safe and supportive environments in which pupils and staff can work in safety and are respected. 

What happens next

Nothing further for now. 

Audiences

  • Teachers
  • Headteachers
  • Governors
  • School support staff
  • Early learning and childcare providers
  • Local authorities
  • Further education colleges
  • Sixth form colleges
  • Independent specialist colleges
  • Designated institutions and 16-19 academies
  • Designated safeguarding leads
  • Virtual school heads
  • SENCOs
  • Educational Psychologists
  • Governing bodies and academy trusts
  • Bodies representing schools and local authorities
  • Parents
  • Foster carers
  • Adoptive parents
  • Social workers
  • Unions and representative organisations
  • Academies (including free schools), voluntary aided schools, voluntary controlled schools, foundation schools and community schools
  • Directors of children's services

Interests

  • Keeping children safe in education and other settings
  • Safeguarding disabled children
  • Behaviour and discipline
  • Disabled children