Non-Restrictive Techniques

Lead and Support

Hazard	Potential Risk	Likelihood	Severity	Risk Level	Mitigation Measures
Panic or Aggression	Approaching the service user from outside their field of vision could cause panic or escalate aggression.	Medium	High	Medium-High	Ensure staff approach from within the service user's field of vision whenever possible.
Miscommunication	Lack of coordination between the lead and support staff may confuse the service user and escalate the situation.	Medium	Medium	Medium	Conduct pre-planning and clear communication between staff members before engaging with the service user.
Physical Injury	The service user may react physically towards either the lead or support staff, resulting in injury.	Medium	High	Medium-High	Staff should maintain a safe distance and use non-threatening body language to minimise the risk of physical reaction.
Loss of Control	If the service user shifts attention unpredictably, the lead and support roles may become unclear, increasing the risk of escalation.	Medium	Medium	Medium	Staff should be trained to quickly adapt and switch roles if necessary to maintain control of the situation.
Fatigue or Stress	Extended interaction may lead to fatigue or stress in staff, reducing their ability to respond effectively.	Low	Medium	Low-Medium	Ensure adequate staffing levels and provide regular breaks during extended interactions.
Overall Risk Level					Medium

Non-Restrictive Guide: Single Member of Staff

Hazard	Potential Risk	Likelihood	Severity	Risk Level	Mitigation Measures
Physical Strain	The staff member may experience strain or fatigue, particularly if the service user requires significant guidance or support.	Medium	Medium	Medium	Ensure the staff member is trained in safe handling techniques and takes regular breaks if necessary.
Lack of Support	If an incident occurs, the single staff member may lack immediate assistance to manage the situation effectively.	Medium	High	Medium-High	Only conduct single-staff guiding in low-risk situations and ensure backup support is readily available if required.
Service User Resistance	The service user may resist or react unpredictably, increasing the risk of injury to both parties.	Medium	High	Medium-High	Train staff in de-escalation techniques and ensure the guiding approach is non-threatening and supportive.
Limited Supervision	The single staff member may struggle to manage other environmental risks (e.g., obstacles, doors).	Medium	Medium	Medium	Plan the route in advance and minimise environmental risks where possible.
Overall Risk Level					Medium-High

Non-Restrictive Guide: Two Members of Staff

Hazard	Potential Risk	Likelihood	Severity	Risk Level	Mitigation Measures
Physical Strain	Strain or fatigue may still occur, but with a second staff member, the load is more evenly distributed.	Low	Medium	Low-Medium	Rotate responsibilities between staff members to avoid overexertion.
Coordination	Poor communication between the two staff members may confuse the service user or lead to inconsistent actions.	Medium	Medium	Medium	Ensure both staff members plan and agree on their roles before guiding.
Environmental Hazards	Doors, obstacles, or other environmental factors may pose risks if not managed effectively.	Low	Medium	Low-Medium	Assign one staff member to manage the environment (e.g., opening doors) while the other focuses on the service user.
Service User Resistance	Resistance from the service user may still occur but can be managed more effectively with two staff members.	Medium	Medium	Medium	Ensure staff are trained in de-escalation techniques and work together to respond calmly and appropriately.
Overall Risk Level					Medium

Created: 3 December 2024

Last Modified: 3 December 2024

Author: Phil Newton

Version: Version: 1.05