UK Patient Care Brings Gracie University’s Groundbreaking SafeWrap Lateral Restraint System to the UK
At UK Patient Care, we’re proud to be at the forefront of innovation in safety and restraint, and today, we’re excited to share a major milestone in our journey. Our Managing Director, Andrew Heald, has just returned from Los Angeles, where he completed the very first instructor certification in Gracie University’s SafeWrap Restraint System—a cutting-edge development that is set to revolutionise restraint practices in the UK.

Andrew trained directly with the team at Gracie University and the Los Angeles Police Department, the first law enforcement agency to implement the SafeWrap system. As a result, Andrew is now officially the first qualified SafeWrap instructor in the UK, joining forces with renowned personal safety experts Doug Melia and Palkesh Darbar Crawford.

SafeWrap instructor certificate for Andrew Heald

What is SafeWrap?

Developed by the internationally respected Gracie University, known for its world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, SafeWrap is a non-violent, lateral restraint system designed to replace current methods like supine and prone restraint. This system allows for control and containment with safety as the top priority, utilising no joint locks, no choke holds, and no strikes. The system was specifically designed to minimise compression of the diaphragm to facilitate free breathing and reduce the potential of a panicked response in the restrained individual.

Key Benefits of SafeWrap:

  • Optimal Communication
    With all staff members certified in the SafeWrap system, communication and teamwork are highly optimised.
  • Injury Reduction
    By avoiding joint locks, chokes, and strikes, the system reduces liability by minimizing the chance of injury to all parties.
  • Dynamic De-Escalation
    Full visibility of the subject’s face gives restrainers the opportunity to read emotional cues and communicate more effectively to enhance verbal de-escalation throughout the entire encounter.
  • Improved Medical Monitoring
    Restrainers can more effectively monitor the subject for medical distress, and immediately render aid in case of an emergency.
  • Maximum Control
    The simultaneous upper and lower body controls significantly reduce the subject’s escape potential and their access to weapons.
  • Lateral Handcuffing
    A simple procedure that allows for safe and effective application of handcuffs while keeping the subject on their side for the entire process.
  • Improved Public Relations
    The gentle control and benign appearance of SafeWrap reduces the likelihood of public backlash after an incident.

Why This Matters for the UK

Traditional restraint methods in the UK have long been under scrutiny for their physical and psychological risks. SafeWrap offers a safer, trauma-informed alternative that supports the UK’s move towards more humane, accountable care and custody practices—particularly in health care, mental health, and security settings.

Bringing SafeWrap to the UK is more than a professional achievement—it represents a transformational shift. By introducing this method, UK Patient Care is leading the way in reducing harm, promoting safer outcomes, and raising the standard for restraint practices nationwide.

What’s Next?

UK Patient Care is now fully equipped to deliver SafeWrap training across the UK. Our certified Instructors are ready to support organisations looking to implement this revolutionary and compassionate new system.

Interested in learning more about SafeWrap or booking a training session for your team?
Get in touch with us today and take the next step toward safer, smarter restraint practices.

info@ukpatientcare.co.uk

0113 873 0715

UK patient Care staff at meeting table.

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