Julie Morgan MS, Deputy Minister for Social Services
Today, I am publishing the Reducing Restrictive Practices Framework. This is a framework that is intended to lead to the reduction of restrictive practices in childcare, education, health and social care settings for people of all ages.
The Welsh Government recognises that restrictive practices have a negative impact on the wellbeing of those people subject to these practices, as well as those who implement and witness them. The Framework is clear that restrictive practices should only ever be used as a last resort to prevent harm to an individual or others.
The term restrictive practices can apply to a number of different acts (for example, physical restraint, chemical restraint, mechanical restraint, seclusion and long-term segregation).
The guidance is intended to help ensure that those who work with children and adults across relevant settings and services share a common framework of principles and expectations informed by an approach that actively promotes children’s rights and human rights.
The Welsh Government will work with service commissioners, service providers and those who use services to support the delivery of the expectations set out in the Framework and to secure and sustain real change in policies and practice.
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Minister for Social Justice, Minister for Education and the Welsh Language and the Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing have all committed to work with me to ensure that our shared expectations are implemented in a way that will impact positively on the day to day lives of children and adults in Wales.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.