What is restrictive intervention?

Restrictive interventions (RIs) are a range of physical, chemical and environmental strategies used to restrain or limit the movement or behaviour of a person. They can be used safely and ethically in specific circumstances, but there is a risk of unintended consequences if they are not used correctly.

RIs can include both mechanical and chemical measures. Mechanical measures, such as belts, straps and chairs, are used to restrain a person physically. Chemical measures, such as sedatives and tranquilising drugs, are used to reduce the person's arousal and ability to move.

RIs can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

* To protect the person from harming themselves or others

* To manage challenging behaviour that cannot be managed safely in any other way

* To provide treatment or care that requires the person to be restrained

It is important to note that RIs should only be used as a last resort and that there is a strict legal framework that governs their use. They must be used in a safe and proportionate way and must not be used for punishment or as a form of coercion.

There is a growing awareness of the potential harms associated with RIs and a move towards using less restrictive interventions. These include positive behaviour support, which focuses on understanding the person's behaviour and developing strategies to manage it without the need for restraint or medication.