Declining restrictive practice in approved centres in Ireland: improving quality of care through the adoption of a human rights-based approach

Restrictive practice (Restraint and Seclusion) has been declining in approved centres in Ireland. This progress accelerated following the implementation of revised, human rights-based Rules governing the use seclusion and a Code of Practice on the use of physical restraint which were developed by the MHC after consultation with stakeholders and came into effect on 1 January 2023. Many factors contributed to this progress including steps taken by the regulator and by approved centres to enhance this welcome trend.