Beyond the hold: restraint reduction through trauma informed systems

This year’s Restraint Reduction Network Conference focuses on closing the gap between high-level restraint reduction guidelines and the reality of what people experience when they are distressed.  

Throughout the programme we will move beyond considering the ‘how’ of restraint and instead explore why distress happens in the first place, spotlighting the importance of nervous system regulation - understanding how and why a person responds to distress - and cultural inclusion.  

The conference will be of interest to professionals and practitioners working to reduce restrictive practices across health, social care and education. People with lived experience are warmly welcomed. 

Our line-up of lived experience speakers, practice leaders and academic experts will explore and share practical, evidence-based tools that help transform organisational culture and create environments where people’s safety is defined by belonging, rather than control and restraint. 

Delegates will also join practical, solutions-driven workshops, gaining tools and insights that can be applied across sectors, and in settings supporting people at every stage of life. 

Offering a truly hybrid conference experience, delegates can join us in-person in Newcastle or online via our conference platform, Cvent, giving them the flexibility to take part in the conference in the way that suits them best. 

RRN Members can access an exclusive, members-only early bird discount until 17 July 2025. Find out more about RRN membership here: https://restraintreductionnetwork.org/membership/

We look forward to seeing you in Newcastle and online this November. 

Events for everyone

We recognise that services and organisations have limited resources to send delegates for vital CPD and often rely on one or two colleagues bringing back ideas and learning to share with wider teams.  

The Restraint Reduction Network recognises the value that different perspectives and diversity of experience contribute to the depth of discussion and learning at events.  When considering who attends events on behalf of your organisation, be assured the RRN welcomes and encourages delegates at all stages of careers and who bring a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. 

Inclusion and accessibility

RRN events are for everyone. Whether you are an early career practitioner, an experienced professional, a person with lived experience or are simply interested in the topic, you are welcome at our events.  

Accessibility is important to us. The venue has a step free entrance, lifts to all floors, and accessible toilets. Dietary requirements can be catered for, please just let us know at the time of booking. Assistance dogs are welcome. We have information in Easy Read at the event and if you require a different format, please speak to us in advance.   

All our events have a dedicated quiet space for use by delegates throughout the conference. This will be clearly signposted.  

Our lived experience support team is available for delegates throughout the conference. If you are joining us and are supported by a personal assistant or support worker, they can attend at no extra charge. Please let us know at the time of booking so that we can register you both. 

If there is anything that would make the event more accessible to you, let us know. 

We understand that attending a full day or multi-day event can be challenging, and so recordings of the keynote speeches will be available to both in-person and online delegates for 90 days after the event.