Restrictive practices issues paper

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability is seeking information about the use of restrictive practices on people with disability.

Restrictive practice refers to any action that limits the rights or freedom of movement of a person.

Restrictive practices are used in many settings, such as homes, including group homes, in health settings, in detention, at schools and at work.

They can include the use of physical restraints such a holding a person down on the ground, or the use of medication to sedate a person.

It can also include the use of mechanical restraints such as tying a student to a chair in a classroom, disconnecting the power of an electric wheelchair or taking a person’s communication device away from them.

The Chair Ronald Sackville AO QC said restrictive practices are a key area of inquiry for the Royal Commission.

‘We are asking for information about when, where, how and why restrictive practices are used on people with disability.

‘We want to hear about the effects of restrictive practices, which we know, can cause physical injury, psychological harm and may even cause death.

‘We want to hear about how the use of restrictive practices can be avoided, and hear about alternative measures and strategies.

‘We are also interested in understanding how laws and policies around restrictive practices can be improved,’ said the Chair.

The restrictive practices issues paper is the latest in a series of publications released by the Royal Commission. They provide an opportunity for individuals, organisations and experts to help inform the Royal Commission.

‘We have received more than 170 responses to the seven issues paper we have released so far.

‘We welcome any information that will assist the Royal Commission and we encourage people to provide responses by 28 August, 2020,’ said the Chair.