Opinion
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26:01:26
New Guidance on Restrictive Interventions and Seclusion in Schools: Key Legal Implications
The Department for Education has published revised guidance on the use of reasonable force and other restrictive interventions in schools, replacing the 2013 Use of reasonable force guidance. The new framework, which comes into force in April 2026, reflects a clear policy shift towards prevention, safeguarding and transparency, alongside legally enforceable duties on recording and reporting the use of force and seclusion. While the guidance applies to all schools, its implications are particularly acute where pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are involved.