Staff experiences of facilitating post-restrictive practice debriefs in a forensic mental health service

Purpose Conducting debriefs with service users following the use of restrictive practices such as physical restraint or seclusion has been associated with positive outcomes. Despite this, the process has received limited empirical attention, especially in forensic mental health services. This study aimed to explore the experiences of mental health staff who have used restrictive practice debriefs as part of their work in a forensic mental health service. Design/methodology/approach The study used a qualitative design, where eight members of staff took part in semi-structured interviews. The staff who took part were responsible for facilitating debriefs across a large UK-based forensic mental health inpatient service. Interview data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings Analysis revealed three main themes: implementation issues; repairing the therapeutic relationship; and learning opportunity. Despite challenges and limitations regarding the process, participants reported that facilitating debriefs with service users following restrictive practice use was a valuable intervention which helped service users to develop insight and facilitated collaborative working. Debriefs were also viewed as an opportunity for staff reflection and improvement. Originality/value To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first study to consider restrictive practice debriefing in UK forensic services.