Positive handling interventions, often referred to as restraint, are sometimes required in schools to ensure the safety and well-being of every student on the premises. When it’s necessary, it’s important these positive handling interventions are performed by at least two members of staff.
Here we explore in-depth why the team approach Dynamis advocates is so pivotal to an effective intervention.
How does the presence of at least two staff members during positive handling interventions support safeguarding?
Children, by their very nature, are vulnerable and their welfare is of paramount importance. In situations where physical contact becomes necessary for their safety, or the safety of their peers, the presence of two or more staff members ensures any actions are observed and closely monitored.
By having multiple staff members present during an intervention, the risk of unintentional harm is reduced significantly. Working in a team allows for immediate feedback and real-time adjustment of the intervention, thereby ensuring it is executed in the safest and most suitable manner. Furthermore, it offers a crucial layer of protection for both the child and the staff involved, minimizing the likelihood of misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the situation.
Why are two members of staff better than one when it comes to reporting and reviewing positive handling interventions?
When an intervention is necessary, the situation is often fluid and stressful. Having multiple staff members present ensures that there are various perspectives on the unfolding situation, which becomes critical when reporting, corroborating and reviewing the incident later.
Each staff member brings their observations and understanding to the table, providing a well-rounded picture of the incident. This corroboration is vital in maintaining transparency, ensuring accountability, and informing any necessary follow-up actions or adjustments to the school’s intervention strategies.
Why is it safer to have at least two members of staff managing a positive handling intervention?
The physical aspects of safely managing a child’s distress or challenging behaviour necessitate the involvement of more than one staff member. Children in distress can be unpredictable, and managing their movements to prevent self-harm or harm to others is not something an individual should undertake alone.
Adopting a team approach allows for better control of the situation, ensuring the safety of the child, the staff and other students. It also helps create a more calming environment for the child. Seeing a united, supportive team can help deescalate the situation, reassuring the child that they are not alone and that the adults present are working together to ensure their safety.
Furthermore, a team approach ensures that staff members can support each other during and after the intervention. This support can be emotional, for example helping staff members to deal with any stress or feelings of guilt that can arise from having to physically intervene. It can also be practical, allowing staff members to take turns and rest if the situation continues for a prolonged period.
How can Dynamis help my school with positive handling?
Here at Dynamis we know that positive handling interventions are a team activity that require collaboration, cooperation, and mutual support among staff members.
We know it takes a village to raise a child and it takes a supportive, well-coordinated team to build a safe, nurturing school environment where every child can thrive.
Contact Dynamis if you want an approach to positive handling which prioritizes the safety and well-being of everyone involved, ensures accountability and transparency and provides the most effective response to challenging situations.
