Staff at secure children's home in Sheffield turn restraints into 'dance moves' to avoid distressing youngsters

Aldine House at Dore provides care, education and intervention to eight young people who have significant behavioural problems, are awaiting trial, or are sentenced by the courts for criminal offences.

A report by Sheffield Safeguarding Children Board says Aldine House accepts young people who are nationally ‘difficult to place’ and staff sometimes need to use restraints.

The report says: “There is a clear ethos within staff that restraint is considered only as a last resort. An important part of Aldine House’s restraint minimisation strategy is to ensure that these are kept as short as possible to keep young people and staff safe.

“Staff are trained in de-escalation techniques to prevent restraints from being needed and also in disengagement – how to safely release from restraint as quickly as is safe.

“Staff use distraction techniques, guides and blocks extremely effectively to minimise the use of restraint.

“Staff will put an arm around the young person’s shoulders to guide them away, without restriction, from a potentially escalating situation. Staff use play imaginatively and effectively to deflect and distract.

“Very low level restraints have moved swiftly into dance moves on occasion, demonstrating excellent childcare and skills from staff.”

The report says all incidents involving a restraint are reviewed on CCTV by at least one certified restraint instructor.

The report adds: “When reviewing restraints on CCTV, we also witness the nurture given to young people following restraints.

“Young people are not left alone and staff spend time sitting with them and comforting them, making sure to start restoring relationships straight away.”

Child H

Child H was given the opportunity to work in Aldine House’s kitchen, preparing and serving food with the chef, so she could get independence.

She had previously worked in a restaurant and was applying for work again in this area. The work experience in the kitchen allowed her to practise these skills again and prepare for working life.

Child H has since been in touch with Aldine House and is so far doing very well.