A recent UK industry report published in April 2024 has emphasised a notable increase in workplace incidents involving physical restraint, underscoring the urgent need for accredited Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression (PMVA) Trainer training across health and social care sectors. The findings have significant implications for UK employers aiming to comply with health and safety legislation while enhancing staff competency in managing challenging behaviour.

Key Findings from the Report

The report, compiled from data supplied by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and over 150 UK healthcare providers, identifies a 17% rise in recorded incidents involving physical restraint over the past two years. This escalation is attributed to increased pressures on frontline staff and a shortage of adequately trained personnel authorised to deliver PMVA training in-house.

Notably, the survey reveals that 62% of organisations rely on external trainers or unaccredited staff to deliver restraint training, raising concerns about the consistency and quality of instruction. A significant 47% of respondents reported difficulties in accessing high-quality PMVA Trainer courses, particularly outside major urban centres, which challenges their ability to meet regulatory requirements under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related guidance.

Implications for Employers

Industry experts caution that the lack of sufficient accredited PMVA Trainers can increase legal and operational risks for employers. Poorly managed restraint techniques have been linked to avoidable injuries and potential breaches of duty of care, leading to costly investigations and reputational damage.

"Employers must prioritise investing in recognised PMVA Trainer training to ensure their workforce is both competent and compliant. This not only mitigates risk but fosters safer environments for staff and service users alike," said a sector training consultant.

The report also highlights a growing trend towards blended learning models, combining live online training with face-to-face sessions, to improve accessibility and flexibility for organisations across the UK.

Training Providers Respond

In response to these findings, accredited providers such as Abertay Training have expanded their PMVA Trainer course offerings. Available for £595 + VAT, Abertay’s PMVA Trainer course is delivered live via Zoom or in-person at over ten venues nationwide, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh, among others. This approach helps bridge geographic gaps in access to high-quality training and supports employers in meeting statutory obligations.

By equipping internal staff to become certified PMVA Trainers, organisations can deliver consistent, compliant training tailored to their specific operational needs. This also aligns with HSE’s recommendations for ongoing competency development in violence and aggression management.

Looking Ahead

As workplace violence and restraint incidents show no sign of abating, the pressure on UK employers to maintain robust, accredited PMVA training programmes is intensifying. The industry report serves as a timely reminder that proactive investment in trainer development is essential to safeguard both staff welfare and organisational compliance.

Employers seeking to improve their training provision may consider accredited PMVA Trainer courses such as those offered by Abertay Training. Full course details and booking information can be found at https://www.abertaytraining.co.uk/courses/pmva-trainer.