Somerset Council’s Health and Safety Service has released new guidance to help schools manage and reduce incidents of violence and aggression against staff, following the recommendations of a multi-school working group that convened in May 2025. The move comes in response to a rising number of reported incidents, particularly in primary settings, and aims to provide schools with practical strategies and clear procedures to support staff safety and wellbeing.
The Health and Safety Executive defines work-related violence as “any situation where a person is abused, threatened or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work.” This includes physical force, verbal abuse, threats, prejudice-related incidents, and damage to property. The new guidance stresses that all such incidents, whether perpetrated by pupils, colleagues, or members of the public, must be addressed through robust school policies and processes.
Incident reporting
All incidents of violence must be recorded, and staff must be encouraged and supported to report every incident, via EEC’s Accident reporting module. The “other” incident type category has been removed to improve data quality and accurate reporting is essential for monitoring trends and ensuring appropriate support and intervention.
Behavioural management and training
The guidance recommends trauma-informed approaches and relational practice models, with staff trained in preventative strategies and de-escalation techniques. Schools are encouraged to set clear behavioural expectations and consequences, and to use restraint only as a last resort.
Multi-agency support and staff wellbeing
Collaboration with Educational Psychology, Inclusion, Preventing Exclusion, and HR teams is strongly advised. The guidance also highlights the importance of structured, trauma-informed debriefing and supervision for staff following incidents.
Looking ahead
Senior leaders and Governors are urged to track trends in violent incidents, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and update risk assessments and behaviour plans accordingly.
Learn more:
Other category removed from incident type
Guidance for schools
Trauma Informed Schools UK
Employee Assistance Program (Care first)
