Why do RRN Standards matter in creating safer workplaces?

Written by James Crown, Training Director

At IKON Training, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported in their workplace. That’s why we are committed to delivering high-quality training that meets the highest industry benchmarks. A vital part of this commitment is our alignment with the Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and certification through the Bild Association of Certified Training (Bild ACT).

Why restraint reduction matters

When used unnecessarily or inappropriately, restrictive practices can have long-lasting impacts, not just on individuals but also on staff teams. The Restraint Reduction Network was established to drive cultural change around the use of restrictive interventions, promoting their use only as a last resort and always in the safest, most ethical way possible.

The RRN Training Standards set clear expectations for providers, focusing on de-escalation, dignity, and positive outcomes. By aligning with these standards, IKON reinforces our core values: empowering individuals, reducing risk, and building safer environments. It’s about equipping professionals with the confidence, knowledge, and tools to de-escalate situations and use the least restrictive interventions.

What are the RRN Training Standards?

Explore the RRN Training Standards.

Progress or limitation?

Of course, restraint reduction isn’t without debate. Some practitioners worry that it could limit their ability to respond in high-risk situations. Others view the standards as a necessary, ethical shift in practice.

So, is it worth it?

At IKON, we believe absolutely. These standards protect individuals and empower staff, giving them the tools and strategies to manage challenging situations safely and confidently. Change isn’t always easy, but our sector must continue to evolve.

This dialogue must remain open as we move forward, ensuring that restraint reduction remains grounded in real-world frontline experience.

Our certification with BILD ACT

Becoming certified by Bild ACT is no box-ticking exercise. It’s a rigorous, multi-stage process and a continued commitment to the highest training standards.

Here’s what it involved:

Here’s what the certification process involved:

1. Self-assessment – Over six months, we submitted detailed evidence of compliance.
2. Assessment visit – An independent assessor reviewed our documentation and observed our training.
3. Panel review – A panel including individuals with lived experience validated our submission.
4. Certification decision – IKON Training was awarded full certification after meeting all criteria.

But it doesn’t end there. Certification is maintained over three years, with ongoing observation to ensure standards remain consistently high.

Why we choose to be certified

We understand the responsibility that comes with training professionals who face high-risk, emotionally charged situations. That’s why our trainers bring extensive frontline experience and lived expertise, delivering practical, trauma-informed, and evidence-based content.

Our courses are designed not just to meet the RRN standards but also to help create safer, more compassionate environments where restrictive practices are a last resort.

The future of restraint reduction – and IKON’s role

As the RRN continues to develop its guidance, including the upcoming Version 2 of the RRN Training Standards, we’re proud to play an active role in the conversation.

I’m particularly interested in how these updates will support sectors beyond specialist healthcare, particularly education, where staff are facing significant resourcing and training time pressures. With ongoing reports of inappropriate restraint, it’s crucial that Version 2 is both ambitious and adaptable.

We want to ensure these standards are realistic for implementation across all sectors. At IKON, we’ve seen first hand the challenges of applying best practices in environments where capacity is stretched, and we’re committed to sharing those insights.

Aligning with best practice
The RRN draws on evidence-based strategies like the Six Core Strategies for restraint reduction, which emphasise strong leadership, data-led decision-making, and staff development. We reflect these values in every course we deliver.

Setting the Standard
We wholeheartedly share the RRN’s focus on ethical, person-centred approaches. At IKON, we’re committed to continuously improving our offer, so our training not only meets expectations but sets new ones.

Driving Innovation in Training
Through innovative approaches, including immersive learning tools like virtual reality (VR), we’re helping professionals develop skills in more engaging, impactful ways. As proud contributors to the restraint reduction movement, we believe innovation plays a key role in achieving lasting change.

Let’s create safer, more empowered workplaces

If your organisation wants to reduce reliance on restraint while equipping staff with the skills to manage challenging behaviour confidently and safely, we’re here to help.

Explore our RRN Managing Challenging Behaviour Training Course further
Visit our website

Written by James Crown, Training Director

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