In 2025, both care and education providers face growing scrutiny over how they manage behaviours that challenge. Whether in a children’s home, a supported living setting, or a school for pupils with additional needs, the message from regulators is clear: reduce restraint wherever possible and ensure staff are trained to act safely, lawfully, and compassionately.
A Clear Direction from Regulators
Ofsted requires schools and children’s homes to evidence positive behaviour support and the reduction of restrictive practices.
CQC expects care services to show restraint is only used as a last resort, with clear de-escalation strategies in place.
DfE guidance for schools emphasises safeguarding, proportionality, and accountability when using any form of physical intervention.
NHS England continues to lead on the national Restraint Reduction Network Standards, influencing expectations across health, education, and social care.
Why This Matters for Providers
For schools and care settings, the risks of outdated or inconsistent training are significant:
Safeguarding breaches if staff intervene incorrectly
Legal challenges if restraint cannot be justified under current standards
Inspection concerns if regulators see evidence of poor practice
Staff anxiety and lack of confidence in high-pressure situations
How Training Providers Are Responding
With more focus on trauma, mental health, and safeguarding, many providers are re-examining their training models. While systems like MAPA, Team Teach, and PRICE are still in use, there is growing recognition that PMVA (Prevention & Management of Violence & Aggression) offers a consistent, legally defensible framework across care, education, and secure services.
At Frontline Training, our programmes are:
NFPS-aligned and trauma-informed
Designed to fit residential care, supported living, secure transport, and education environments
Updated to reflect the latest regulatory expectations
The Key Takeaway for 2025
Restraint may still be necessary in certain high-risk scenarios — but how it is used, justified, and reduced is under sharper scrutiny than ever before.
Providers in both care and education who invest in modern, trauma-informed training will:
Build safer environments for staff and service users
Meet inspection standards with confidence
Demonstrate a commitment to best practice that reassures regulators, commissioners, and families
Talk to Us
If your organisation is reviewing its training provision for 2025, we’d be happy to help. Our training is tailored to care homes, supported living services, schools and SEND settings, and secure transport providers.
📧 enquiries@fltrain.co.uk
☎ 0113 532 1960
🌐 fltrain.co.uk