“New guidance now requires LSCBs to agree procedures regarding the investigational process to be followed in the event of an allegation being made. Clearly it is important that inter-agency procedures are based on agreed thresholds relating to the use of permissible force. These agreed thresholds should reflect realistic working practice and aim to safeguard all involved. Staff should not be automatically suspended following a n allegation regarding use of force, but due process should be followed as indicated by attached documents.

Team teach advocates that services should include in their policy a statement that reflects the working realities and likely consequences when individuals are involved in an incident involving use of force. See below. The following statement should be made both in local & corporate policy: “Team-Teach techniques seek to avoid injury to the service user, but it is possible that bruising or scratching may occur accidentally, and these are not to be seen necessarily as a failure of professional technique, but a regrettable and infrequent side effect of ensuring that the service user remains safe”. (George Matthews - Director)