act’ policy at a school or college can leave staff unable to fully support and protect their pupils and students. The department therefore encourages principals, governing bodies, and proprietors to adopt sensible policies, which allow and support their staff to make appropriate physical contact. The decision on whether or not to use ‘reasonable force’ to control or restrain a child is down to the professional judgement of the staff concerned within the context of the law and should always depend on individual circumstances. 165. When using ‘reasonable force’ in response to risks presented by incidents involving children with SEND, mental health problems or with medical conditions, schools and colleges should in considering the risks carefully recognise the additional vulnerability of these groups. They should also consider their duties under the Equality Act 2010 (see paragraphs 84-91), for example in relation to making reasonable adjustments and their Public Sector Equality Duty. By planning positive and proactive behaviour support, for instance through drawing up individual behaviour plans for more vulnerable children, and agreeing them with parents and carers, schools and colleges can reduce the occurrence of challenging behaviour and the need to use ‘reasonable force’. • Departmental advice for schools is available at Use of Reasonable Force in Schools • HM Government guidance Reducing the need for restraint and restrictive intervention sets out how to support children and young people with learning disabilities, autistic spectrum conditions and mental health difficulties who are at risk of restrictive intervention in special education settings, however all schools and colleges may find the information helpful. Use of school or college premises for non-school/colle