In recent years, the use of physical restraints on youth in Vermont’s custody has sparked significant concern among advocates and families. New data reveals that hundreds of incidents of restraint and seclusion have occurred, raising questions about the safety and well-being of these vulnerable individuals.
Key Takeaways
- Over 500 incidents of physical restraint and seclusion reported in 2023 and 2024.
- Children as young as 5 have been subjected to seclusion, with some incidents lasting over 30 minutes.
- Advocates argue that the reported figures may only represent a fraction of actual incidents.
- A new bill aims to improve oversight and accountability in the use of restraints.
Understanding Restraint and Seclusion
Restraint refers to the physical holding of a person to prevent movement, while seclusion involves isolating a youth in a room to ensure safety. These practices are intended as last-resort measures, primarily for safety reasons. However, they can lead to significant psychological trauma and a loss of bodily autonomy for the youth involved.
The Data Behind the Incidents
According to the newly compiled data, the Department for Children and Families reported that 58 individual youths accounted for all restraint and seclusion incidents in the latter half of 2023 and throughout 2024. This suggests that a small number of youths are responsible for a disproportionate share of these incidents.
- Total Incidents: Over 500 reported incidents in two years.
- Age of Youth Involved: Incidents involved children as young as 5 years old.
- Duration of Incidents: Some restraints lasted for extended periods, raising concerns about their appropriateness.
The Impact of Restraints
Former residents, like Nate Farnham, have shared their traumatic experiences with physical restraints, describing them as devastating both physically and psychologically. Such experiences can lead to long-lasting behavioral changes and heightened anxiety in social situations.
Efforts to Reduce Restraints
Facility administrators acknowledge the need to reduce the use of restraints and seclusions. They are implementing various strategies, including:
- Increasing staff training on de-escalation techniques.
- Enhancing the therapeutic environment within facilities.
- Regularly reviewing incidents to identify patterns and improve practices.
Legislative Response
In response to the growing concerns, Vermont lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at improving data collection and accountability regarding the use of restraints. The proposed legislation includes:
- Mandatory professional development for staff on alternatives to restraint.
- A potential ban on particularly dangerous restraint techniques.
- Standardized reporting procedures to ensure timely oversight.
Conclusion
The rising number of physical restraints used on youth in Vermont custody highlights a critical issue within the state’s child welfare system. As advocates push for stronger oversight and legislative changes, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable youth in state care. The ongoing dialogue around these practices is essential for fostering a more supportive and therapeutic environment for all children in custody.
Sources
- Youth in Vermont custody have been physically restrained hundreds of times in recent years, VTDigger.
