The Challenge
An acute mental health unit was struggling with high rates of physical restraint. Staff felt unsupported and patients felt unsafe. The unit wanted to change the culture and reduce reliance on restrictive practices.
Our Approach
Our Experts by Experience provided training on de-escalation from a lived perspective. We shared what it feels like to be on the receiving end of restraint and worked with staff to develop alternative approaches. We also conducted peer-led reviews of incidents.
The Impact
- 30% reduction in restraint incidents
- Improved staff confidence in de-escalation
- Better therapeutic relationships
- New post-incident support processes