Physical Intervention in Schools – One Year Review of Guidance

Glossary

The 2024 guidance provides the following definitions relevant to the practices referenced in this report:

Physical restraint: “The use of direct physical force to restrict freedom of movement.”

Mechanical restraint: “The use of equipment to restrict freedom of movement.”

Seclusion: “An act carried out with the purpose of isolating a child or young person, away from other children and young people and staff, in an area in which they are prevented from leaving.”

Restraint: “An act carried out with the purpose of restricting a child or young person’s movement, liberty and/or freedom to act independently.”

Physical intervention: “Physical contact carried out with the purpose of providing support to or preventing the actions of a child or young person.”