AQO 1103/22-27

Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 24/10/2024
Answered On Date: 12/11/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman's report on an Investigation of a Complaint Against the Western Health and Social Care Trust, published on 23 October 2024.

Answer:

The recent Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman's (NIPSO) report was primarily focussed on a complaint against the Western Health and Social Care Trust. However, I have considered the findings and recommendations which are relevant to my department in relation to the use of restrictive practices in schools.

My department has consulted on draft statutory guidance on the Reduction and Management of Restrictive Practices in Educational Settings. Responses to this consultation have been analysed and officials are currently working with stakeholders to revise and refine the draft guidance, reflecting on the issues raised during the consultation process.

As part of this work, the findings and recommendations of the Ombudsman’s report will be reviewed, in collaboration with health officials and in the context of the draft guidance for schools.

Departmental officials have scheduled a meeting with NIPSO officials in the coming weeks to discuss the issues raised in the report.

Departmental officials will continue to work collaboratively with stakeholders as work progresses to finalise the guidance.