CQC and the NHS Confederation's Mental Health Network have worked with the Department of Health on guidance published last year on minimising all forms of restrictive practices so they are only used as a last resort.
Since then we have been working with the network to understand the implications for providers and the best way to review this through our new inspection methods. The wider Positive and Safe programme was launched by the Department of Health following the guidance and relates to all adult health sectors. However, this document only relates to mental health providers.
The guidance makes some significant steps to clarify definitions of restrictive practice and sets a clearer framework for reporting. By developing this, CQC and the NHS Confederation hope that providers can be clearer about what the expectations are on them to deliver on this agenda and how progress will be monitored.
Dr Paul Lelliott, CQC's Deputy Chief Inspector of Hospitals (Mental Health) said:
"We welcome this publication which advises providers how to respond to the Department of Health's recent policy on restrictive practices. The CQC is committed to using its regulatory powers to ensure that mental health services minimise the use of restraint and other restrictive interventions and have been happy to support the NHS Confederation in developing this publication. The briefing will help our inspectors review how well providers are implementing policies to reduce the use of restrictive practices."
Find out more
Read the guidance document on the NHS Confederation's website.