Better guidance on restraint

Sir, – It was disturbing to note the report from ENABLE Scotland highlighting that hundreds of children are restrained or isolated on thousands of occasions each year in Scotland (Campaigner disputing true number of incidents, Courier, November 4).

In 2017/18 alone 2,674 incidents of restraint and seclusion relating to 386 children were recorded by Scotland’s councils, although these figures underestimate the issue as nearly a third of councils failed to provide the information.

On a number of occasions this activity has had a devastating impact on the mental wellbeing and development of these children, causing physical and psychological harm.

This demonstrates a clear need to invest in staff training, ensuring that children with additional support needs such as learning disabilities, autism and/or mental health, children receive the support that they need.

It should however be noted that the number of specialist ASN teachers has declined by more than 400 between 2012 and 2018, despite an increase in the number of children and young people with the conditions as highlighted above. This has been accompanied by a decline in staff such as behaviour support staff and educational psychologists.

If we are to urgently tackle the issue of restraint and seclusion what is required from the Scottish Government is better guidance, greater support and training for teachers, and transparency and improved reporting from schools.

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition. 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh.