FOI Request - Use of Restraint in Special Schools

Request 101003059741

This is a request for information under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 regarding the use of restraint in special schools.

For each academic year from 2018-2021, please can you provide the following data:

1. The total number of incidents of restraint that took place in special schools and alternative provision sites in the local authority, and how many of these resulted in a physical injury to a child or young person?

2. The total number of incidents of seclusion that took place in special schools and alternative provision sites in the local authority, and how many of these resulted in a physical injury to a child or young person?

3. Do staff at special schools and alternative provision sites in the local authority receive regular training in the use of restraint?
a. If the above answer is yes, which type of training or provider is used, and how regularly (for instance, is it annual, biannual, or upon starting a staff role)?

Please break down the data for questions 1 and 2 by academic year, i.e. 2018/19, 2019/20, 2020/21, and 2021/22 (so far).

Response 25-05-2022

1. 

2018/19 - 12
2019/20 - 7
2020/21 - <5 Due to the low numbers involved, disclosure could lead to the identification of individuals. This information is therefore exempt under section 38(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information (Scotland)                      Act 2002, personal information.
2021/22 - 0

No injuries recorded

2. 

No incidents recorded

3. 

We are not able to offer regular training currently but we are working towards developing a programme of regular training for staff working across our schools. We do offer BSS (Behaviour Support Strategies) training to support risks assessments and CRISPs (Crisis Intervention Support Plans). Staff who have received Physical Intervention training will have twice yearly practice sessions supported by BSS instructors.