The objective of the Safewards model is to reduce conflict and containment within clinical departments. The model attempts to identify and address the causes of behaviours in staff and patients that may result in harm, such as violence, self-harm or absconding and reduce the likelihood of this occurring.
Originating in the UK and implemented internationally, the Safewards model was developed from a broad body of evidence, including several large scale research studies conducted over a number of years. A review of more than 1,000 additional studies reported from around the world were synthesised into the model. A randomised controlled trial of the model was able to establish a decline in conflict at each of the sites using the Safewards model.
In Victoria, Safewards was trialed across 7 services (18 units) over one year. It was extensively evaluated by the Centre for Psychiatric Nursing, University of Melbourne with significant and positive results.
Aim:
To trial the implementation of Safewards in 2 acute inpatient wards.
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Lead
EDONM
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By when
Pilots completed: 30 June 2023
To be extended to additional wards. -
Measurable outcome
Our aim is to increase staff safety and reduce and, where possible, eliminate the use of restrictive interventions by implementing an evidenced based model of care.