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Escape Techniques Customised training courses which allow participants to develop the physical skills required to enable them to escape from a physical attack, using a range of non aversive methods. Although the provision of training in physical escape and "breakaway" techniques is a common organisational response to concerns about violence, research repeatedly suggests that training in physical self defence techniques is often ineffective. Staff targeted for attack commonly "freeze" and are unable to make the automatic responses required to escape. Training programmes often seek to equip staff to deal with extreme violence, although such behaviours are actually seldom encountered in practice. Although perhaps well intentioned, this approach may fail to consider the question of skill development and retention and may simply serve to increase staff anxieties and the unrealistic expectations on staff which are frequently generated by the provision of training. CALM programmes seek to equip staff to address the reality of everyday practice. Escape technique programmes offer a restricted range of techniques, selected for their effectiveness, safety and versatility. These are based on a limited number of physical principles. An approach which facilitates learning and skill retention. The techniques do not involve inflicting pain and do not require undue fitness or athleticism. All programmes can be tailored to the reality of everyday practice through Risk Assessment and Practice audit and seek to support staff to operate within their capabilities. |