Violence & Aggression Including Mental Health Units Use of Force Act 2018 Policy

The Mental Health Units Use of Force Act (2018) states that:

“Every individual has the right to be treated with dignity and in a caring therapeutic environment which is free from abuse. The use of force (which refers to physical, mechanical or chemical restraint, or the isolation of a patient) can sometimes be necessary to secure the safety of patients and staff. The use of force always comes with risk and can be a traumatic and upsetting experience for patients when they are at their most vulnerable and in need of safe and compassionate care. The use of force can also be upsetting for those who witness it, such as other patients or visitors” Mental Health Units (Use of Force) Act 2018: statutory guidance for NHS organisations in England, and police forces in England and Wales - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust is committed to providing safe and positive care and ensuring the wellbeing of all its service users, carers, staff and visitors. We will ensure our care is the least restrictive, the most positive and takes account of human rights, choice and engagement, and collaboration. We aspire to utilise the least restrictive approach and where we do use restrictive practice, ensure they are safe and positive, are done in collaboration with service users and their families/carers and are supported by best practice, a clinical model and sit within the framework of trauma informed care and human rights. The Trust's Violence and Aggression policy has been updated to reflect the requirements of the Mental Health Units Use of Force Act (2018).