Figures reveal ‘alarming’ rise in injuries at mental health units

Figures reveal ‘alarming’ rise in injuries at mental health units Questions are being raised over the effectiveness of the government’s drive to cut use of restraint

Thousands of patients in NHS mental health units are injured every year when they are restrained by staff, according to new figures which campaigners have branded “horrifying”.

A total of 3,652 patients suffered an injury through being restrained during 2016-17 – the highest number ever – according to data from 48 of England’s 56 mental health trusts. The figures raise serious questions about the effectiveness of the government’s drive to reduce use of techniques which critics say can be traumatic for patients and even endanger their lives. The Guardian