Use of Reasonable Force & Restrictive Interventions – Revised Guidance

Key updates include:

1. Statutory Requirement to Record and Report Use of Force (Effective September 2025)

• From September 2025, schools will be legally required to record and report incidents where reasonable force is used. This aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the use of force, helping schools to monitor and review practices;
• Schools will need clear policies and processes in place to comply with these new requirements.

2. Guidance on Other Restrictive Interventions (Non-Statutory)

• The new guidance expands beyond reasonable force to include other restrictive interventions, such as:
  • Physical restraint (holding, blocking, guiding);
  • Seclusion or isolation (removing a child from an area or restricting their movement);
  • Mechanical restraints (e.g., arm splints in certain medical cases);
  • Chemical restraint (use of medication to manage behaviour).
• Schools are advised to use positive behaviour strategies to reduce reliance on restrictive practices.

3. Strengthened Guidance on When Reasonable Force is Appropriate

• Clarification that reasonable force should only be used as a last resort when absolutely necessary to:
  • prevent harm to a child or others;
  • stop a criminal offence or property damage;
  • maintain discipline in exceptional circumstances.
• An emphasis on proportionality – force used must be reasonable and justifiable.

4. Specific Provisions for Pupils with SEND and Vulnerable Learners

• The guidance recognises that pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are more likely to be subjected to restrictive interventions;
• Schools must provide reasonable adjustments and consider de-escalation techniques before resorting to force;
• Encourages individual behaviour plans for pupils at risk of needing restrictive interventions.

5. Responsibilities of Schools, Governing Bodies, and Proprietors

• School leaders and governors must ensure staff are trained and competent in behaviour management and use of force;
• Staff must be aware of legal protections and understand the emotional and psychological impact of using force on pupils;
• Governing bodies should monitor trends in the use of force and ensure schools comply with recording and reporting requirements.