Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what proportion of staff authorised to use the minimising and managing physical restraint system have been trained in managing medical emergencies which might arise during the restraint of children.

The Government is clear that restraint should only ever be used against young people as a last resort where it is absolutely necessary to do so and where no other form of intervention is possible or appropriate. Use of restraint is closely monitored in the youth secure estate.

Minimising and Managing Physical Restraint (MMPR) training provides staff with knowledge about recognising which health conditions are associated with an increased risk of harm to a young person during physical restraint, what symptoms and signs should be monitored during restraint, and actions to take should such symptoms occur. MMPR training also instructs staff on how to deal with a medical emergency should one arise during restraint.

In addition, all custody officers in Secure Training Centres receive first aid training as part of their initial training course. In Young Offender Institutions all custodial managers must be trained in first aid.