Physical Intervention Training – S3

S3 Physical Intervention System

What is the S3 Physical Intervention System?

The S3 Physical Intervention System is a robust, evidence-informed framework designed to help professionals safely manage physical risk and aggression in a range of settings. Focused on three guiding principles — Simple, Safe, and Secure — the system equips staff with effective techniques to de-escalate conflict, prevent harm, and protect both the person in crisis and those around them.
Developed by frontline professionals with extensive experience in high-risk environments, S3 is more than just a set of holds, it’s a complete approach to managing behaviour that prioritises dignity, trauma-awareness, legal compliance, and real-world practicality.

S3 Physical Intervention Course Overview

Our S3 Physical Intervention Training (also known as PMVA, Positive Handling, or Physical Intervention & Restraint Training) is a comprehensive, trauma-informed programme designed to equip staff with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to safely manage challenging or high-risk behaviour in the workplace.

Whether referred to as PMVA training (Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression) in mental health settings, Positive Handling training in schools, or Physical Intervention training in social care or security environments, the S3 system offers a legally compliant, practical, and ethical approach that can be tailored to any sector.

Where S3 Can Be Used

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Mental Health Services

Acute wards
PICUs
CAMHS
Learning disability & autism units
Community crisis teams

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Health & Social Care

Residential and supported living services
EMI and dementia care
Substance misuse services

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Education Settings

SEN schools and alternative provision
Behavioural support units
Mainstream schools with inclusion units

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Security & Custodial Environments

Hospital security teams
Private security companies
Escort and transport services

S3 Physical Intervention Training - Figure Of Four

S3 Physical Intervention Training by UK Patient Care

Each setting receives tailored training that reflects its unique legal, operational, and cultural context. We adapt techniques, language, and policy integration to match your needs.

Why Choose S3?

Simple

We believe staff should retain what they learn under pressure. That’s why S3 uses clear, repeatable, and low-complexity movements that are easy to remember, even in stressful situations. Our system minimises the need for brute strength or complex coordination, allowing teams of all sizes and experience levels to respond effectively.

Safe

S3 is designed to reduce risk of injury to both staff and service users. It uses biomechanically safe positioning, trauma-informed communication, and proactive team approaches. We focus on early intervention and least restrictive options first, in line with the Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and CQC expectations.

Secure

When intervention is required, staff must feel confident in their ability to act. S3 includes a progressive response model, enabling professionals to safely manage everything from low-level resistance to high-risk aggression, all while maintaining legal defensibility, control, and professional accountability.

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What Does the S3 System Include?

Legal and ethical foundations
Dynamic risk assessment and decision-making
De-escalation and non-physical strategies
Personal safety and breakaway techniques
Single-staff and team-based physical interventions
Holding, guiding, and seated interventions
Recovery, release, and aftercare
Recording, reporting, and reflective practice

All techniques are taught within a values-led, person-centred framework, ensuring respect and compliance with best practice.

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Training Delivery

S3 training is fully accredited, practical, risk assessed, and tailored to your setting. We offer:

1–3 day core training packages
Bespoke refresher sessions
Train-the-Trainer programmes
Integrated Search + S3 courses
Scenario-based assessments and skill validation

All courses include competency checks, reflective discussions, and policy alignment support. Training can be delivered onsite or at an external venue, with full documentation provided.

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Ongoing Support & Online Learning Platform

Every participant who completes S3 training gains exclusive access to our secure online learning platform. This resource hub provides high-quality video demonstrations of every technique relevant to their role, allowing staff to revisit the content as often as needed.

12-Week Video Refresh Programme

To ensure retention and real-world confidence, we encourage all trained staff to complete weekly video refreshers for 12 weeks following their course. These are short, focused, and designed to maintain skills between annual training sessions.

Quarterly Digital Certification

Staff receive a quarterly refresher certificate upon completion of their video refresh cycle. These certificates serve as ongoing competency evidence and must be presented at their annual face-to-face refresher.

Why This Matters

This approach is helping to raise standards, promote safety, and ensure consistency across teams and services. It supports a culture of continuous learning, reduces skill fade, and helps organisations demonstrate commitment to professional development and safety assurance.

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Compliance and Best Practice

The S3 system is designed to support organisations in meeting:

– Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) standards

– CQC Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOEs)

– Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements

– Education and Inspection Frameworks (EIF)

– Equality Act 2010 and Human Rights Act 1998

We help organisations embed a positive behaviour support culture, reduce incidents of restrictive practice, and ensure lawful, proportionate responses to risk.

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Physical Intervention Tip – Blocking the Elbow

What does "S3" stand for?

S3 stands for Simple. Safe. Secure. — the three principles at the core of our physical intervention system.

How long does the training take?

Courses range from 1 to 3 days, depending on the level of risk, staff roles, and required techniques. We also offer refresher and modular add-on sessions.

What are the certification and refresher requirements for the S3 system?

 S3 certification is valid for 12 months, with an annual refresher required to maintain compliance and competence. We also recommend 12-weekly CPD refreshers via our online portal to help staff stay confident, up to date, and ready to respond safely in high-risk situations.

FAQ’S

Is S3 approved or accredited?

Yes, S3 training is delivered by qualified instructors and is accredited through the CPD Group, in line with relevant sector-specific regulations.

Can the training be tailored to our service?

Absolutely. Every S3 programme begins with a Training Needs Analysis to ensure the content, techniques, and scenarios are fully aligned with your environment, service users, and risk profile. We provide bespoke solutions that are realistic, relevant, and role-specific.

Do you offer training for schools and education staff?

Yes, S3 can be adapted for use in mainstream, SEN, and alternative provision settings. We tailor all interventions to suit the developmental, emotional, and sensory needs of children and young people.

How does S3 reduce the need for restraint?

We place strong emphasis on early intervention, communication, and risk assessment. Most incidents can be resolved without physical contact when staff are confident in their non-physical options.

What type of holds or techniques are used?

S3 focuses on low-arousal, low-risk techniques including guiding holds, seated interventions, and multi-staff responses. We do not use pain compliance or prone restraint unless in exceptional circumstances where legally justified.

Can S3 be integrated with our existing policies and training frameworks?

 Yes. S3 is designed to be flexible and can be embedded into your existing training structure, behaviour policies, or risk management frameworks with ease. We work collaboratively to ensure alignment and compliance at every level.

Is S3 suitable for lone working?

Yes. The system includes breakaway and disengagement skills specifically designed for lone workers or staff in community roles.

What makes S3 different from other systems?

S3 is designed to be easy to remember, legally robust, and grounded in real-world experience. We combine technical instruction with values-based training to create confident, compassionate staff teams.

Is there ongoing support after training?

 Yes. We offer post-training consultancy, policy support, and refresher sessions to help maintain safe practice and ensure continuous improvement. Our team remains available for advice and guidance as your needs evolve

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Ready to Implement S3?

Whether you’re a healthcare provider, educational setting, or security team, we’ll work with you to implement a safe, effective and legally compliant physical intervention system.

Contact us today to book a consultation or request a course outline.

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Why choose UK Patient Care?

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National Coverage

We offer comprehensive coverage across the UK and will travel to you.

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Highly Experienced Trainers

Our team is made up of industry experts with high levels of relevant experience. They understand the challenges you face and are passionate about making a difference.

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Tailored Training

We work closely with our customers to develop training that is unique to their needs and challenges.

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Online Resources

We will give you access to online resources and videos after the course to reinforce your learning experience.

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For more information or to make a booking

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