Level 2 - Breakaway & Safe Escape

Course Overview

This course is designed to equip staff with the skills necessary to breakaway from an aggressive situation where the defusing and de-escalation techniques have failed and they are being physically assaulted. It is a practical course requiring active participation from course delegates. The course is presented in an informal manner so that delegates can relax and enjoy the learning experience.

Course Objectives

By the end of this session the delegates should be able to:

Realise that breakaway and self-defence techniques are only used when all other options have failed

Understand the Law in relation to the use of force for personal Defence and/or the Defence of others. The Common and Criminal Law, including the meaning of 'Reasonable Force' with reference to Section 3(1) of The Criminal Law Act 1967, in relation to Defence of self and/or others

Understand how Health and Safety legislation is there for your benefit. The various elements of Health and Safety Statute and associated Health and Safety Regulations that relate to the use of physical force in the workplace, including what is meant by the:
- 'Common-law duty of care'
- Health and Safety at Work Act etc 1974, sections 2, 3, 7 and 8
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Regulations 3, 8 and 14

Apply the correct and safest way to defend themselves from a variety of wrist and body grabs whilst standing, seated behind a desk, in a bed situation and whilst in a car for those in the community

Know the quickest and safest escape from strangles

How to apply an effective stance in order to deal with head butts, punches, kicks and kneeing to the groin

Assess and use your environment, thus working out the quickest possible escape route, to minimise confrontation
This is only used as a last resort when de-escalation and defusing techniques have failed and to use the minimum amount of force thus minimising any possible injury to yourself, the assailant and to continually remember your responsibility towards therapeutic input at all times

All techniques have been risk assessed according to process within the ICM guidelines.


Who Should Attend

All employees who work within an environment that places them at risk of assault from members of the public whilst in the course of doing their duty, for example, those who work alone in the community or with high-risk patient/client groups.

Course Duration

This is a 1 day course.

Course Materials

A booklet is issued to all attending the course.

Course Content

The following topics will be covered in this session:

Relevant legislation dealing with violence and aggression – Criminal Law

Escape from wrist grabs, body grabs, hair & clothing grabs

Breakaway from strangulation including attacker using ligatures

Dealing with punches, head butts, kicks and groin attacks

How to deal with assaults whilst on the floor

Use of defensive body positioning and personal space

Aspects of good communication skills

The 'what if’s'.


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