By Rebecca Black, Press AssociationA mother who said her son was restrained and also placed in a cupboard has urged MLAs to act to stop the practice. In 2024, the Public Services Ombudsman found Harry had been “restrained unnecessarily” in a chair in school, and without his mother’s knowledge. “This meant being placed in a small cupboard in the classroom called the dark room,” she said. “The department has collaborated extensively with stakeholders to revise and refine the draft guidance on restrictive practices in education settings. “Once that advice is received, the minister will consider the revised guidance and confirm next steps, including the position in relation to legislative change.”

Source: The Herald February 19, 2026 13:32 UTC